Quick answer
How to play
- Draw one card from the stock or the discard pile.
- Arrange the hand into sequences and sets. Many variants require at least one pure sequence.
- Discard one card. A hand ends only when it meets the variant's declared validity rules.
Rummy sequences, sets and jokers
A normal turn has three parts: draw one card, arrange the hand and discard one card. The goal is to organise cards into valid groups according to the format your group has agreed.
Valid groups
A sequence uses consecutive ranks in one suit. A set uses equal ranks in different suits. Many Indian Rummy formats require at least one pure sequence, meaning a sequence with no joker substitution.
Jokers and declaration
A joker can substitute for a missing card in permitted groups, but groups should decide the exact joker rules before playing. Declare a hand only after it meets the required sequence and set conditions for the chosen format.
Rules and points
A valid meld is usually a same-suit sequence or same-rank set. Jokers can substitute in some groups but not necessarily in a pure sequence. Use your table's agreed format for hand size and point limits.
Turn scenarios
What is the next step?
Related guide
Want a two-player version? Read Gin Rummy rules. Definitions for joker, draw, discard and meld are in the glossary.