Cribbage Plain-English guide
Cribbage Discard Strategy
Learn how to compare the four cards you keep with the two cards you throw, including the crucial difference between your crib and your opponent's.
Compare all 15 discards →Value the keep and the throw together
The strongest immediate four-card hand is not always the best overall discard. The two thrown cards can add value to your crib or give value away to your opponent.
Protect an opponent's crib
Connected cards, pairs, and combinations totaling five can work together with unknown crib cards. When the opponent owns the crib, avoid feeding combinations with strong joint potential when a competitive alternative exists.
Think in expected starters
A flexible keep improves with many possible starter cards, while a fragile keep may depend on only one or two cuts. Comparing every unseen starter provides a better baseline than choosing the prettiest-looking hand.
FAQ Quick answers
Common questions.
Why are fives dangerous to discard?
Any ten-value card combines with a five to make 15, and ten-value cards are plentiful in the deck.
Does the best discard change when I am dealer?
Often, yes. Your own crib adds to your score, while an opponent's crib works against you.