Minesweeper Strategy: 8 Patterns That Clear Boards
Minesweeper is mostly counting. These patterns cover the moves you'll make again and again. New to the game? Read the rules first.
1. Count the hidden neighbours
If a 3 has exactly three hidden cells around it, all three are mines.
2. Count the flags
If a 2 already has two flags around it, every other neighbour is safe.
3. Chord to save time
Once a number's mines are flagged, click the number to open the rest of its neighbours in one go.
4. The 1-1 pattern on an edge
Two 1s side by side along a wall of hidden cells: the cell beyond the second 1 is safe.
5. The 1-2 pattern
A 1 next to a 2 along a straight edge: the cell beyond the 2 (on the far side from the 1) is a mine.
6. Use the totals
Late in the game, compare the mines left with the hidden cells left. Sometimes the count alone tells you the answer.
7. Work from what's open
Start where the most numbers meet. Each new cell you open gives more information around it.
8. If you must guess, guess well
Prefer cells far from numbers (fewer mines nearby on average), and guess early: losing after a minute hurts less than after ten. Hint shows the least risky cell.
Frequently asked questions
Do you ever have to guess?
Sometimes. Most of a board can be solved by logic, but some positions leave two equally likely cells. Guess early rather than late, and away from the edges when you can.
Last updated 2026-10-18