Input lag can be the difference between victory and defeat in fast-paced competitive games. This frustrating delay between your action and the on-screen response stems from multiple sources in your gaming setup. To minimize input lag, start by enabling Game Mode on your monitor or TV, which disables unnecessary post-processing effects. Switch to a wired connection for both your controller and internet, as wireless options introduce additional latency. Lower your graphical settings, particularly demanding effects like shadows and anti-aliasing, to reduce the rendering workload on your GPU. For PC gamers, capping your frame rate slightly below your monitor's maximum refresh rate can create a more consistent frame time and prevent render queue delays. Keep your graphics drivers updated, as new versions often include optimizations for popular titles. Investing in a monitor with a high refresh rate (144Hz or above) and a low response time (1ms) will provide a tangible improvement. Finally, close background applications on your PC to free up system resources dedicated to the game. By systematically addressing these areas, you can achieve a more responsive and fluid gaming experience.