1. What is the Cribbage Discard Calculator?

The Cribbage Discard Calculator helps players determine the optimal discard strategy by calculating the expected score difference between kept cards and given cards to the crib.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• Avg Points Kept — Average points expected from the cards you keep
• Avg Points Given — Average points expected from cards given to the crib

Explanation: This calculation helps determine whether keeping certain cards or giving them to the crib will result in a better overall score.

3. Importance of Discard Strategy

Details: Proper discard strategy is crucial in cribbage as it can significantly impact your final score. A good discard minimizes points given to your opponent while maximizing points in your hand.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the cards you plan to keep and the cards you plan to give to the crib. The calculator will estimate the expected score difference to help guide your decision.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the optimal discard strategy?
A: The optimal strategy varies based on whether you're the dealer or not, but generally involves keeping cards that can form combinations while minimizing high-value cards given to the crib.

Q2: Should I always keep pairs?
A: Pairs are valuable (2 points), but sometimes breaking a pair might be better if it prevents your opponent from getting a better crib.

Q3: How important is it to consider the crib?
A: Very important. When you're not the dealer, you want to give the worst possible cards to the crib. When you are the dealer, you can be more generous.

Q4: What about keeping cards that add up to 15?
A: Cards that add to 15 are valuable (2 points), so it's often good to keep combinations that can form 15s.

Q5: Should I keep consecutive cards for runs?
A: Yes, runs are valuable (3+ points depending on length), so keeping consecutive cards can be beneficial.