How to work out what a Skat game is worth

Lesson 6 of 11, about 2 min

Every Skat game has a value, and bidding is nothing but naming values, so this is the sum to know: base value × multiplier. The base value depends on the game: ♦ Diamonds 9, ♥ Hearts 10, ♠ Spades 11, ♣ Clubs 12, Grand 24. Null is different and has fixed values of its own.

The multiplier starts with the matadors. Line up the trumps from the ♣J down. Hold the ♣J, and you are with as many trumps as you hold in an unbroken run; lack it, and you are without as many as you are missing from the top. Both count the same, and the skat counts as the declarer's cards.

Then add 1 for game, plus any extras such as Hand or Schneider. Holding ♣J ♠J but not ♥J in a hearts game: with 2, game 3, 10 × 3 = 30. You practise counting until it is quick.