Hand Evaluation in Tichu
Strong hands are more than high cards. The best hands combine lead control, flexible combinations, and a clear path to going out.
Count Your Lead Options
Aces, the Dragon, bombs, and long straights help you regain the lead. The more lead options you have, the safer a Tichu call becomes.
Look for Length
Hands with long straights, stairs, or full houses empty quickly. Several small, disconnected singles are a warning sign.
Build an Exit Plan
Before the first trick, imagine the order you want to play your combinations. If you cannot see a clear route, avoid risky calls.
Track your Tichu games
Use the free Tichu Counter to record scores, Tichu calls, and double victories.
Tichu CounterRelated guides
When to Call Tichu: Decision Guide for Smart Betting
Master the art of calling Tichu. Learn when to bet 100 points, what hand strength you need, and how to read situations for optimal Tichu calls.
Tichu Card Combinations: Singles, Pairs, Straights & Bombs
Learn all valid card combinations in Tichu: singles, pairs, triples, full houses, straights, and powerful bombs. Master the combinations to control the game.
Grand Tichu Guide: When to Call the 200-Point Bet
Learn the rules and strategy for Grand Tichu, the 200-point call made after your first 8 cards. Hand strength, timing, and partner support explained.