Scrabble rules: how to play and score
Also known as: Criss-Crosswords
Scrabble rules and scoring: place letter tiles in crossword style, use bonus squares, earn 50 points for using all seven tiles. Plus tips to raise your score.
- Type
- Board game
- Players
- 2–4
- First released
- 1948
- Designed by
- Alfred Mosher Butts
Scrabble is a word game in which two to four players build words on a 15-by-15 square board using lettered tiles, each with a point value. Words connect to each other in crossword style, and coloured bonus squares multiply the value of letters or whole words. The game was invented by the American architect Alfred Mosher Butts in the 1930s under names such as Criss-Crosswords, and it was launched under the name Scrabble in 1948. It is now played in many languages, each with its own letter distribution, and has a large competitive scene. At home, it is a calm and thoughtful game that rewards vocabulary, planning and a little luck in the tiles you draw.
Our verdict
Scrabble combines language and strategy. A long word is not always the best move; a short word on the right bonus square can score more. Players learn new words, improve spelling and practise mental arithmetic while they play. It works very well as a two-player game, and the pace is relaxed enough for conversation. Many people continue to play it for their whole life, and it is a common choice for language learners who want playful vocabulary practice.
What works
- Builds vocabulary and spelling
- Deep strategy for experienced players
- Excellent for two
What does not
- Players with large vocabularies have a big advantage
- Slow players can make the game drag
How to play Scrabble
Each player draws seven tiles from a bag and keeps them on a rack. The first word must cover the centre star square. On your turn, you may place tiles in one straight line, across or down, to form a word that connects to tiles already on the board. Every new word formed, including short words created alongside, must be valid in the agreed dictionary. Add up the letter values, applying double or triple letter squares and double or triple word squares that your new tiles cover; bonus squares count only on the turn they are first covered. Using all seven tiles in one turn earns an extra 50 points. After playing, draw back up to seven tiles. Instead of playing, you may exchange tiles or pass. Blank tiles can represent any letter but score zero. The game ends when the bag is empty and one player uses all tiles, or when no one can move. Remaining tiles are subtracted from each score.
Tips for new players
- Learn short valid words, especially two-letter words, to fit tiles in tight spaces.
- Place high-value letters on double and triple letter squares.
- Keep a balanced rack of vowels and consonants; exchange if it is very poor.
- Avoid opening triple word squares that your opponent can easily use.
Good for
Scrabble: common questions
How many tiles does each player hold in Scrabble?
Each player holds seven tiles and refills to seven after every turn while tiles remain in the bag.
What is the bonus for using all seven tiles?
Using all seven tiles in one turn earns 50 extra points.
Who invented Scrabble?
Alfred Mosher Butts, an American architect, invented the game in the 1930s. It was launched as Scrabble in 1948.
Scrabble belongs to its owners. Playdonya is not connected to them and does not sell this game; the cover is our own illustration.
