Singles and Pairs add an exciting challenge to American Mahjong, requiring strategy, patience, and skill. Unlike hands built with Pungs (3 of a kind) and Kongs (4 of a kind), Singles and Pairs are more difficult to complete—but that’s why they come with higher point values!
In this guide and accompanying video, we’ll break down the rules for Singles and Pairs in Mahjong, why they’re harder to play, and key strategies to improve your gameplay.
What Are Singles, Pairs & Groups of Singles in Mahjong?
🔹 Single Tile – Any one tile that stands alone in your hand.
🔹 Pair – Two identical tiles placed together within your hand.
🔹 Group of Singles – A set of non-matching tiles that function as a meld (e.g., NEWS, 2025, 123).
Each year, the National Mah Jongg League (NMJL) Card includes a dedicated Singles & Pairs section, but you’ll also find hands across other sections that require Singles, Pairs, or Groups of Singles.
Why Are Singles & Pairs Hands Harder to Play?
✅ You Cannot Call for a Discarded Tile to Complete a Single or Pair
✅ Jokers Cannot Be Used in Singles or Pairs
Because you must draw all the necessary tiles yourself, Singles & Pairs hands require more patience and luck, making them more rewarding (and higher-scoring) when completed.
Singles & Pairs Rules You Need to Know
Rule #1: You Cannot Call for a Single or Pair
❌ You cannot claim a discarded tile to complete a single, pair, or group of singles—except for your final tile to declare Mahjong.
This means that you must self-draw most of the tiles in a Singles & Pairs hand. If another player discards the tile you need for a pair, you cannot call it unless it’s your last tile to win.
Rule #2: Jokers Cannot Be Used for Singles or Pairs
❌ Jokers can NEVER substitute for a single tile, a pair, or a group of singles.
Jokers are only allowed in melded sets of three or more like tiles (Pungs, Kongs, Quints). Even if a Joker would complete your final tile to declare Mahjong, it is not allowed in Singles & Pairs hands.
Key Takeaways for Playing Singles & Pairs in Mahjong
✔️ Singles & Pairs hands are challenging but rewarding
✔️ You must self-draw most of the needed tiles
✔️ Jokers are not allowed in Singles, Pairs, or Groups of Singles
✔️ Higher difficulty = Higher point value
Mastering these hands takes strategy, patience, and experience—but once you do, you'll level up your Mahjong gameplay!
📌 Want to learn more? Check out our Mahjong strategy guides for expert tips!