Most players move cards to foundations as soon as they appear. This is often a strategic mistake. I've found that knowing exactly when to build foundations—and more importantly, when to hold back—is what separates advanced players from beginners.
The Golden Rule
Never move a card to the foundation if it could be useful in the tableau.
Tableau cards act as "hooks" for smaller cards. If you move a Black 5 to the foundation, you can no longer place a Red 4 on it in the tableau. This simple move acts as a blocker that can jam an entire column.
When to Move Cards Immediately
Some cards are always safe to move. Aces and Twos have practically no strategic value in the tableau because no cards can be placed on top of them (since nothing is lower than an Ace).
| Card Rank | Action | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|
| Ace | Move Immediately | None |
| Two (2) | Move Immediately | Very Low |
| Three to Six | Evaluate Tableau | Moderate |
| Seven+ | Hold for Tableau | High |
Analyzing Tableau Dependency
Before moving a card to the foundation, check the tableau for its "opposite color partner."
Case Study: The Red Five
If you have a Red 5 available for the foundation, stop and look for a Black 4 in your tableau or waste pile. If that Black 4 exists and needs a home, moving the Red 5 to the foundation will effectively block that Black 4 from being played.
The "Twinning" Strategy
Keep your foundations balanced. Try to build all four foundations at a similar pace. Having one suit at King while another is at Three creates a "gap" (e.g., you can't place a 4-5-6 sequence) that often results in unplayable cards in the tableau.
Foundation Recovery
Remember that you can move cards back from foundations to the tableau. This is a crucial tactic for unlocking hidden cards late in the game. If you need a Red 6 to hold a Black 5, pull it down from the foundation!