How to Play Tangram

THE PLAYBOOK · SJZYCGG

How to play Tangram

Open Tangram, check the instructions and begin a round. Fill the square target with seven pieces, without gaps or overlap. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Make your first input carefully and watch the result. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.

Arrange seven pieces into the square target. Rotate or flip a piece to fit; this game currently offers one target shape.

Build a steady rhythm

Take enough time to read a new position. If a game has a timer, learn its controls first rather than searching for them during the round. Refer to the controls when needed.

Your goal

Fill the square target with seven pieces, without gaps or overlap. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Try to explain the aim in your own words.

Step by step

1. Drag a selected piece.
2. Rotate in 45-degree steps or flip it.
3. Use snapping for precise alignment.
4. Check the layout or use one-piece assistance.

Controls

Mouse/touch dragging and rotate/flip buttons. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Return to the rules if the result is unexpected.

A useful example

The parallelogram may need flipping rather than rotation. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Notice the change in the playing area.

Watch out for this

Overlaps do not count as filling the target. Check the rule before repeating the action. When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round.

Common questions