Start here
The essentials
Guide
How to Play Pips
The board, the dominoes, and what every region symbol means — in two minutes.
ReadOpen →StrategyStrategy & Tips
Five habits that turn the Hard board into a ten-minute solve, with the numbers behind them.
ReadOpen →HelpFAQ
Quick answers to the most common questions about Pips and this site.
ReadOpen →Overview
What you'll find in Guides
This is the hub for learning and reading about The New York Times Pips. The essentials cover the rules, a strategy playbook and a plain-English FAQ. The blog goes deeper — pattern breakdowns, explainers and background on the puzzle.
Where to start
New to Pips? Read How to Play first, then try today’s hints. Already comfortable and want to get faster? Jump into Strategy & Tips.
FAQ
Are the guides free?
Yes — every guide and article is free to read, with no account needed.
How often do you publish?
We add strategy pieces and explainers regularly, alongside the daily hints and answers.