How to Play Make 10

Make 10 is a satisfying arithmetic puzzle game that challenges you to find combinations of cards that sum to exactly 10. It blends the visual satisfaction of clearing cards with quick mental math, making it both educational and addictive. It's a perfect quick-play game for all ages.

Objective

Clear all cards from the board by selecting groups of cards whose values add up to exactly 10. Remove as many cards as possible to achieve a high score.

Setup

• Cards are dealt face-up in a grid layout.
• Card values run from 1 to 9: Aces = 1, number cards = face value (2-9).
• There are no tens or face cards in our version, so every match needs at least two cards.
• All cards are visible from the start — no hidden information.
• A countdown timer runs for the round.

Gameplay

• Select two or more cards whose values add up to exactly 10.
• Valid combinations include 6+4, 7+3, 5+3+2, 1+2+3+4, and many more.
• Selected cards are removed from the board, and bigger matches score more.
• If your running total goes over 10, the selection resets to the card you just clicked.
• Click a selected card again to deselect it.
• Clear the whole grid before the timer runs out to win.
• The round also ends early if no combination of the remaining cards can total 10.

Valid Combinations (Examples)

• Two cards: A+9, 2+8, 3+7, 4+6, 5+5
• Three cards: A+2+7, A+3+6, A+4+5, 2+3+5, 2+4+4, 3+3+4
• Four cards: A+2+3+4, A+2+4+3, 2+2+3+3, A+3+3+3
• Single card: 10 (removed alone)

Scoring

• Each card removed is worth points equal to its face value.
• Bonus points may be awarded for clearing multiple cards at once.
• Clearing the entire board earns a perfect score bonus.
• Fewer remaining cards = higher score.

Strategy Tips

• Look for large groups first — Removing 4-5 cards in one combination opens up more future options.
• Save flexible cards — Cards like 5 can pair with many others. Don't use them in the only obvious pair if other combinations exist.
• Scan systematically — Start from one corner and work across to avoid missing combinations.
• Plan ahead — Before selecting, consider whether removing those cards leaves orphans that can't be matched.
• Target isolated cards — If a card only has one possible match, make that match before the partner gets used elsewhere.
• Practice mental addition — The faster you spot sums, the quicker you'll clear boards.

Why Make 10 is Great

Make 10 exercises mental arithmetic in a low-pressure, game-like environment. It builds number sense in children and keeps adults' minds sharp. The puzzle nature means there's always a satisfying "aha" moment when you spot a tricky combination.

Play Make 10 Online

Our free online Make 10 features a clean card layout, instant sum validation, and score tracking to help you improve your personal best.

Play Make 10 Online for Free →