Peg Solitaire Strategy
1. Work one arm at a time
Think of the board as a centre square with four arms. Empty one arm completely, using pegs from the centre as needed, then the next.
2. Never strand a peg
A peg left in the end of an arm with no neighbours can never be removed. Before each jump, ask: can every peg still be jumped over, or jump itself?
3. Keep the middle busy
Pegs near the centre can move in four directions; pegs at the edge in one or two. Finish towards the middle.
4. Packages
Learn small patterns: an L of three pegs next to a gap can be cleared with two jumps that leave one peg back where you want it. Most full solutions are made of these.
5. Use the hint to learn
The hint always has a line to the perfect finish. Try a few moves on your own, then check whether the hint agrees.
Frequently asked questions
Why do I always get stuck with a few pegs?
Usually a peg has been left alone in the corner of an arm with nothing to jump over. Clear each arm fully before moving on, and keep your remaining pegs near the middle.
Last updated 2026-10-20