Around the Clock: rules of the warm-up classic

Not in the standard version — all that matters is whether the number was hit, whether as a single, double or treble. There is a widespread house rule, though, where a treble skips two numbers ahead.

In the simple version, usually 10 to 20 minutes for two players. With doubles required it takes considerably longer and turns into a test of patience — but it is the more effective practice.

Yes, it is the usual first game: you learn the board without having to do any maths. Once you hit reliably, most players move on to 501 or straight into doubles practice.