Guides>Capture the Flag (CTF) Planning & Execution Guide

Capture the Flag (CTF) Planning & Execution Guide

Simulations Labs
📅September 7, 2025
Capture the Flag (CTF) Planning & Execution Guide

Capture the Flag (CTF) Planning & Execution Guide

Organizing a CTF can be a powerful way to train teams, engage communities, or identify top cybersecurity talent. This guide walks you through the entire process of running a successful competition—from planning and setup to execution and wrap-up.

What’s Inside?

  • Introduction – why CTFs matter for learning, training, and recruitment.
  • Why Run a CTF? – benefits for teams, organizations, and communities.
  • Pre-CTF Planning – defining goals, choosing a platform, creating challenges, and preparing logistics.
  • CTF Day Execution – kickoff, monitoring, communication, and scoring.
  • Post-CTF Wrap-Up – announcing results, collecting feedback, and archiving challenges.
  • Planning Checklist – a ready-to-use reference to keep your event on track.

Impact

Download the full guide and get a clear framework to design and run CTFs that are smooth, engaging, and impactful.