Pyramid Solitaire Tips - How to Clear the Pyramid Every Time

Pyramid Solitaire: Clear the Pyramid

Pyramid Solitaire is about finding pairs that sum to 13. Sounds simple, but clearing the entire pyramid requires strategic thinking.

The Sum-to-13 Pairs

Memorize these combos — they're the foundation of every game:

• King = 13 (removes alone!)
• Queen (12) + Ace (1) = 13
• Jack (11) + 2 = 13
• 10 + 3 = 13
• 9 + 4 = 13
• 8 + 5 = 13
• 7 + 6 = 13

Strategy: Top-Down Priority

Always prioritize removing cards higher up the pyramid:

• Removing a peak card uncovers two cards below it
• Bottom row cards only uncover themselves
• When you have a choice between pairs, pick the one higher in the pyramid

The Exposure Rule

A card is only playable when both cards covering it are removed. Plan your removals to maximize exposure:

1. Identify which buried cards you need
2. Work backwards to figure out which cards to remove first
3. Sometimes removing a "good" pair now blocks a better pair later

Stock Pile Management

• Don't rush through the stock pile — scan the pyramid for pairs first
• Remember what's in the stock pile to plan future pairs
• Save stock pile cards that pair with hard-to-reach pyramid cards

When You're Stuck

• Kings can always be removed — look for them first
• Check if rearranging your removal order opens new possibilities
• Sometimes it's better to cycle the stock pile than force a pyramid pair

Advanced: Card Counting

Track which values have been removed. If three 7s are gone, the remaining 7 can only pair with the remaining 6. This narrows your options and helps planning.

Ready to topple the pyramid? Play Pyramid Solitaire now!