Click an empty square to place your mark. Win by making a line of three (or four in 4×4 variants). Opening in the center gives the most options; opening on a corner is second best. Always watch for immediate threats—if the opponent has two in a row with an open third square, you must block.
In larger grids, control key intersections that participate in multiple lines. Don’t chase every small threat—create positions where your next move can threaten two wins at once.
Play in 5–7 minute focused bursts, then rest for 2 minutes. Track your best score each day and write one lesson you learned.
Expect small, steady improvements. Review failures right away to spot patterns.