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Table Talk 101 · How to Play Spades
What Is Nil?
Nil is a promise to win zero books for the entire hand, not just the opening tricks.
0:12 · captions on · tap the speaker for sound, it stays on for the next lessons
Written steps
- 1
Commit to zero
Nil must be enabled at the table. Look for a hand you can keep under the other players’ winning cards.
- 2
Keep every book away
Your partner can cover a card that might win, but both players must still follow suit. A single book breaks your nil.
- 3
Know the stakes
Table Talk scores a successful nil at +100 and a failed nil at −100. Your partner still needs to manage their own regular bid.
Try it at your table
Name one card in your hand that could endanger a nil bid.
Quick check
How many books can a successful nil take?
Zero for the whole hand.