Building to eight
Because of the eight-point minimum, MCR players learn a set of reliable patterns worth eight or more on their own, or that combine easily. Mixed triple chow — the same sequence in all three suits — is a classic eight-pointer, as are mixed straight and mixed shifted chows (which are worth less but combine well).
Mid-range patterns
Half flush, all pungs and all types are worth six points each; full flush is worth 24; seven pairs is 24. Combining a six-pointer with a few small patterns often reaches the minimum.
The largest hands
At the top are 88-point patterns such as big four winds, big three dragons, all green, nine gates, four kongs, seven shifted pairs and thirteen orphans. Even in tournaments they are rare.
Learning the list
New MCR players are usually advised to learn the patterns in groups: the eight-pointers first, then the common combinations, then the rare large hands. Scoring cheat sheets are permitted in many beginner events.
