How to play Hearts

The objective

Your goal is simple: avoid penalty cards and finish with the lowest score. This guide uses the most common beginner-friendly rules. Families and groups may agree on variations before starting.

What you need

A standard 52-card deck.

How to set up

1. Deal thirteen cards to each player.
2. Pass three cards as directed for the round.

How to play: step by step

1. The player holding the two of clubs leads it.
2. Follow the led suit when possible; otherwise discard another suit.
3. Each heart is one point and the queen of spades is thirteen points.
4. After all tricks, record penalties; lowest score when someone reaches the limit wins.

Beginner strategies

• Track whether the queen of spades has been played.
• Keep low cards for escaping difficult tricks.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Leading hearts before they are broken unless no alternative exists.
• Forgetting that taking all penalty cards can shoot the moon.

Frequently asked questions