Tips twentyfourseven

EARLY PHASE: Because there are very few tiles on the board at the start of the game, Sum of 7 or Run of 3 will probably be your first scoring combo (maybe a Sum of 24 if there are big tiles on the board). These are also the lowest scoring combos but don't ignore them especially if you can play on a double-time space and double your score. If you drew a lot of high value tiles, try to set yourself up for a Sum of 24 or a Set of 3. Sometimes you set up your opponent too, so count tiles and make calculated risks. For example, you have 2 tiles of the same value in your rack and another just like it on the board. It is a good bet you can set up a scoring combo with one of those tiles in mind. Finally, if you have no good plays, then blocking your opponent from scoring is a good strategy. At the very least, play an unwanted tile somewhere on the board so that it doesn't help your opponent, like blocking the double-time space.

MID PHASE: With more tiles on the board, your chances of scoring increases dramatically, especially scoring in 2 or 3 directions with a single tile placement. This is where the bulk of your scoring is going to take place, so the best strategy here is to be observant and make optimum tile placements. Look in every direction and try to take advantage of the double-time space. Consider setting up your opponent to score if it will help you make an even bigger score. Look for these multi-scoring combos: Set of 3 - 8's, Set of 4 - 6's, and the 9,8,7 run; all three of these score twice. Keep a keen eye open for the coveted 24/7 bonus (or the 24 in 7). This can increase your lead or perhaps throw you into the lead. Count tiles always. If you see 3 of the same tiles in play on the board, and you have the last tile in your hand, then try to set yourself up to score big on that tile.

LATE PHASE: In the beginning there were too few tiles to score, but in this phase there are too few spaces. Couple that with no tiles left to draw and scoring opportunities decrease. Oftentimes, in this phase, you'll be throwing worthless tiles away. It's still possible to score, especially if you held on to the right tiles. Watch what your opponents are playing during their turn. Be ready to block them if it looks like they're setting themselves up to score. If you have the lead, blocking is a good strategy for keeping that lead. If you're not in the lead, make that risky play and try to set yourself up to score on your next turn.