How to Count Cribbage Hands Fast
Counting in the same order every time makes it quick and avoids missed points. Always include the starter card.
The counting order
- Fifteens: count each combination totaling 15 out loud: "fifteen two, fifteen four…"
- Pairs: 2 for each pair. Three of a kind is 3 pairs = 6.
- Runs: 1 per card. Count duplicate runs when a card is paired.
- Flush: 4 or 5 points.
- Nobs: 1 for the Jack of the starter's suit.
Finding fifteens
Start with 10-value cards and look for 5s. Then check pairs of cards (7-8, 6-9), then groups of three (A-4-10, 2-3-10, 4-5-6), then four or five cards.
Memorize common hands
- Double run of three (e.g. 4-5-5-6): 8 before fifteens
- Double double run (4-4-5-5-6): 16 before fifteens
- Triple run (4-5-5-5-6): 15 before fifteens
Example
7-8-8-9 with a 6 starter: fifteens 7-8 twice and 6-9 = 6; pair of 8s = 2; runs 6-7-8-9 twice = 8. Total 16.
Practice with the hand calculator or by playing a game, which shows the breakdown of every hand.