How to Play Make 24
Make 24 is the arithmetic game played with cards in classrooms and kitchens across China and beyond: four numbers, four operations, one target.
The rules
- You get four numbers from 1 to 13.
- Use each number once, with any of + − × ÷, in any order, to make exactly 24.
- Fractions and brackets are fine along the way.
Playing on kawu
- Tap a number, then an operator, then a second number: the two merge into their result. Three merges leave one number; if it's 24, you've solved it.
- Undo takes back a merge. If no combination of the current numbers can reach 24, the board says so.
- Hint marks a first step that still leads to 24. The result shows one full answer.
- Deals: easy (1–10, solvable with whole numbers), normal (1–13), hard (needs subtraction or a fraction). The daily deal is the same for everyone.
Next, read the Make 24 tricks.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a number twice?
No. Each of the four numbers is used exactly once, and you can't skip one.
Are fractions allowed?
Yes, on the way. The classic 3, 3, 8, 8 only works through 8 ÷ 3: 8 ÷ (3 − 8 ÷ 3) = 24. kawu keeps every intermediate value exact.
Does every deal have a solution?
On kawu, yes. Deals without one (like 1, 1, 1, 1) are never dealt.
Last updated 2026-10-20