How to play Rock Paper Scissors

The objective

Your goal is simple: choose rock, paper, or scissors simultaneously to settle a quick contest. This guide uses the most common beginner-friendly rules. Families and groups may agree on variations before starting.

What you need

Two hands.

How to set up

1. Agree whether the match is one round or best of three.
2. Stand where both hands are visible.

How to play: step by step

1. Count together: Rock, paper, scissors, shoot.
2. Reveal one hand sign at the same time.
3. Rock beats scissors, scissors beats paper, and paper beats rock.
4. Repeat ties and continue until the match is decided.

Beginner strategies

• Vary your choices.
• Reveal exactly on shoot.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Revealing late after seeing the other hand.
• Disagreeing about the count rhythm.

Frequently asked questions