How to survive Survivor

Sixteen contestants but only one winner

Survivor, launching on ITV on Monday, is the latest reality TV programme to hit UK screens.

What is the aim of Survivor?

Sixteen contestants are stranded on a remote island and must battle it out over 40 days to win a £1m prize at stake.

What happens on the programme?

The 16 competitors are divided into two groups, or tribes, the Helang tribe and the Ular tribe, as soon as they arrive on the island.

During each programme the two tribes compete with each other to fulfil a challenge - the Immunity challenge. The tribe which loses the challenge must then vote off a member - during a Tribal Council - who is then forced to leave the island immediately.

The two tribes are merged when six competitors have been ejected.

When there are just two remaining contestants the Survivors who were voted off return to form a jury which will decided the winner.

What are the immunity challenges?

Tasks vary but promise to involve mental and physical skills.

What is the Tribal Council?

The council is formed by the tribe which loses each Immunity Challenge. The tribe must travel to the council through dense jungle before members are allowed to vote. Voting takes place in the form of a secret ballot.

Do viewers vote?

No. The programme is pre-recorded and only the competitors vote.

Can competitors conspire?

Yes. Contestants can form voting alliances but they cannot agree to share the £1m prize.

Is is dangerous?

The contestants are only given enough rice to last 40 days and just one tin of meat and fruit per tribe. Contestants have to fend for themselves. But producers do stress that the programme is just a game show.