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The five-block method

Step 2 of 3

Count the blocks

Five blocks: two sets, two partial sets, a pair

A winning hand is four sets and a pair: five . A block is a set, a pair, or two tiles that need one more. Counting them tells you what to discard.

How many blocks does this hand have?

Six blocks: drop the weakest

With six blocks, one has to go. Drop the weakest whole block: a closed or edge shape, or a third pair. Keep the two-sided shapes.

You drew : six blocks. Which discard keeps the most useful tiles?

Four blocks: grow the best loose tile

With only four blocks, a loose tile has to become the fifth. Keep the one most likely to grow: a middle tile beats a 2 or 8, which beats a 1 or 9. Cut the others first.

You drew : four blocks and four loose tiles. Which discard keeps the most useful tiles?

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