10 Things I Hate About You (1999) is the ultimate teen rom-com — blending high school angst, sharp humor, and Shakespearean roots into a story that’s equal parts clever and heartfelt. With standout performances from Julia Stiles and Heath Ledger, the film has earned its place as a ’90s classic and a fan favorite.
But how much do you really remember about Kat’s sarcasm, Patrick’s serenade, and that unforgettable classroom poem? Take this 10-question trivia quiz and test your knowledge of the movie that made high school heartbreak surprisingly poetic.
10 Things I Hate About You (1999) Trivia Questions & Answers
- Which actor plays the rebellious Patrick Verona?
Correct Answer: Heath Ledger
Heath Ledger stole hearts with his charming and mysterious portrayal of Patrick Verona. His breakout role in this film showcased not just his undeniable charisma but also his ability to balance toughness with vulnerability — laying the foundation for an iconic Hollywood career.
- What is the name of the girl Patrick is paid to date?
Correct Answer: Kat Stratford
Kat Stratford, played by Julia Stiles, is fiercely independent, intellectual, and unapologetically opinionated. Patrick is hired to woo her so that her younger sister, Bianca, can start dating — but what begins as a scheme quickly turns into something deeper.
- Which Shakespeare play is 10 Things I Hate About You based on?
Correct Answer: The Taming of the Shrew
This modern adaptation takes its core plot from Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew, reimagining the story in a high school setting. The Stratford sisters mirror the original’s Katherine and Bianca, and the film cleverly updates the themes of love, control, and rebellion.
- What hobby does Kat enjoy that reflects her independent personality?
Correct Answer: Reading feminist literature
Kat is an avid reader of feminist and progressive literature, often quoting Sylvia Plath and showing disdain for conformity. Her passion for reading reinforces her strong-willed personality and her refusal to fit into traditional gender roles or teenage expectations.
- What school event serves as the film’s big romantic turning point?
Correct Answer: The prom
Prom is where emotions boil over, secrets are revealed, and relationships change. For Kat and Patrick, it’s the moment their connection is truly tested — leading to heartbreak, honesty, and, eventually, healing. As with many teen films, prom serves as the emotional and social climax.
- Which character famously reads a tearful poem in class?
Correct Answer: Kat
In one of the most memorable scenes in teen movie history, Kat reads her “10 Things I Hate About You” poem aloud in class. Her vulnerability catches Patrick off guard — and the audience too. It’s raw, sincere, and the perfect payoff to the film’s emotional journey.
- What song does Patrick sing to Kat in the bleachers?
Correct Answer: “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You”
In a grand romantic gesture, Patrick serenades Kat on the school’s athletic field, backed by the marching band. It’s cheesy, charming, and completely endearing — a highlight of the film that perfectly balances comedy and sincerity.
- Who pays Patrick to date Kat so another character can date Bianca?
Correct Answer: Joey Donner
Joey Donner, the arrogant model, pays Patrick to date Kat so he can pursue Bianca. He’s completely unaware of the emotional depth his plan will awaken. Joey is the film’s classic “pretty boy villain,” and his downfall is both satisfying and deserved.
- What college does Kat plan to attend?
Correct Answer: Sarah Lawrence College
Kat dreams of going to Sarah Lawrence, a liberal arts college in New York known for its progressive education. Her decision reflects her desire for independence and her intellectual aspirations, even as it becomes a point of tension with her protective father.
- How does the film end?
Correct Answer: Patrick buys Kat a guitar as an apology
After Kat discovers Patrick was paid to date her, he wins her back by using his payoff money to buy her a guitar — a deeply personal gift that shows he truly listened to her and regrets his actions. It’s a sweet and redemptive gesture that closes the film on a hopeful note.
