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Gin Score Calculator: how a round works

One thing to notice as you play

Take a moment to read the table. Enter the defender’s deadwood after any legal layoffs; against Gin no layoff is allowed. The same rule applies on a phone and on a computer.

What you are aiming for

Calculate a Gin hand score from the knocker’s and defender’s final deadwood totals. Use another round to revisit a decision. For a calm first round, focus on one decision.

From the start of a round

  1. Enter the knocker’s deadwood from 0 to 10. Zero means Gin.
  2. Enter the defender’s deadwood after any legal layoffs; against Gin no layoff is allowed.
  3. Calculate the result. Gin scores 25 plus defender deadwood; an undercut scores 25 plus the difference.
  4. For an ordinary successful knock, the knocker scores only the positive difference.

Your inputs

Use the two numeric fields, then Calculate score. This tool uses whole numbers. Return to the explanation when a decision is unclear. Begin with the objective.

Follow the example

A knock of 8 against 5 is an undercut: the defender receives 28. Gin against 18 earns the knocker 43. The same rule applies on a phone and on a computer.

Pay attention to this rule

Use the rule sheet as a reference. Enter post-layoff values. This arithmetic tool does not choose card groupings from card images. Check the relevant controls before continuing.

If you are unsure

What is the aim?

Calculate a Gin hand score from the knocker’s and defender’s final deadwood totals. Take a moment to read the table. Take the next action only when the current step is clear.

How do I use the controls?

Use the two numeric fields, then Calculate score. This tool uses whole numbers. Use the rule sheet as a reference. Check the relevant controls before continuing.

Which format is available?

Fixed house bonuses of 25. It does not include line bonuses or a match-end bonus. Use the rule sheet as a reference. Return to the explanation when a decision is unclear.

What should I check before a move?

Enter post-layoff values. This arithmetic tool does not choose card groupings from card images. Before making a move, check the cards in view. Take the next action only when the current step is clear.

Can you give an example?

A knock of 8 against 5 is an undercut: the defender receives 28. Gin against 18 earns the knocker 43. Work at your own pace. The same rule applies on a phone and on a computer.

How is a tie scored?

A non-Gin deadwood tie is an undercut, so the defender receives 25 points. For a calm first round, focus on one decision. Take the next action only when the current step is clear.

Can I use other Gin bonus values?

This calculator uses the same 25/25 values as this site’s Gin table. Take a moment to read the table. Return to the explanation when a decision is unclear.

Does it automatically lay off cards?

No. Enter the defender’s final value after layoffs. The playable Gin table performs card-based layoff analysis. Before making a move, check the cards in view. Use another round to revisit a decision.

Do I need an account or an app?

No. Open the page in a JavaScript-enabled browser. No player account or APK is needed. Look at the complete hand before deciding. The same rule applies on a phone and on a computer.

Are these scores cash or prizes?

No. Points are used only for free play and practice. There are no deposits, cash stakes or withdrawals. Work at your own pace. Check the relevant controls before continuing.