How to play
Players take turns placing X or O. The first player to make a row of three horizontally, vertically or diagonally wins.
One or two players · about 2 minutes
Tic-Tac-Toe
Take turns. Get three in a row. Try not to overthink it.
Play
X goes first.
Paper version
Draw two vertical and two horizontal lines. That’s the whole setup. Or use our printable sheet when you want several clean boards ready to go.
A quick strategy
If you can create two possible winning lines at once, you have made a fork. The Perfect computer mode is useful for learning how to spot and prevent them.
A little more
Small board, real strategy
Going first is an advantage, but good play from both sides always ends in a draw. Start in the centre or a corner, watch for forks, and remember that blocking a threat is usually more urgent than building your own.