The governor of Alaska has been cramming all week for tonight’s VP debate with Joe Biden. So before we rushed home to prep for the smackdown ourselves, we thought we’d offer a couple of last-minute tips. Below, valuable takeaways for Palin from last week’s presidential mano a mano:

THE FIRST 30 MINUTES

What happened on Friday: McCain and Obama barely acknowledge each other’s presence on stage. Viewers all over the country start pounding liquor to save themselves from boredom. The morning after, most of the debate is a total blur.

Takeaway strategy for Palin tonight: Recount as many tales of your time as mayor of Wasilla as possible. Drive America to drink. The next day, your camp will have time for any damage control before post-hangover recall sets in.

THE VALUE OF REPETITION

What happened on Friday: In an attempt to get the candidates to engage with each other about the economic crisis, Jim Lehrer tells Obama (twice) to say his answer “directly to him [McCain].” To which, McCain interjects: “Are you afraid I couldn’t hear him?”

Takeaway strategy for Palin: When in doubt, say, “Can you please repeat the question?” This will buy you some time for the feed to come through all that hair.

"I RAN FOR PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES AND ALL I GOT WAS THIS STUPID BRACELET"

What happened on Friday: McCain spouts stump rhetoric of how he shows support for the troops by wearing a bracelet that a New Hampshire woman made for her son who was killed in Iraq. Upon completion, Obama responds, “I’ve got a bracelet too.”

Takeaway strategy for Palin tonight: Accessorize! May we suggest…an anklet.