Strategy

Using undo and hints in solitaire

Undo and hints can make solitaire easier or can make you better. The difference is how you use them.

Undo as a way to look ahead

Solitaire rewards thinking ahead, but you cannot see face-down cards. Undo lets you try: make a move, see what it uncovers, and decide. If it does not help, take it back. You never need to guess in the dark.

• Try the move that uncovers a card, look at the new card, and undo if it does not help.
• Test an ordering of two moves when you are not sure which comes first.
• Do not draw from the stock casually. Drawing and undoing shows you cards, so use it deliberately.

Hints as a nudge

The hint button points out a useful move: a card to the foundation, a move that uncovers a hidden card, or a draw when nothing else is left. It does not search the whole game, so it will not always find the best move.

1. Look first. Spend a few seconds scanning before you ask.
2. Press hint only when you are stuck.
3. Read why the move works. The same pattern will help in your next game.
4. Then look for the next move yourself.

Hints in the Android app

The Android app has unlimited undo and hints. Its hint follows a winning line when its solver finds one, and says so honestly when no win is left. No coins to buy and no videos to watch. Read about the app.

Keep the challenge

Overusing undo and hints makes the game a button press. Pick how much help suits you. Try a few games without any, then compare. For the thinking behind good moves, see the strategy guide.