Play first
Take the center column on your first move
Build toward the center, not the edges
Create multiple threats at once
Prioritize moves that give you two winning options next turn
Block your opponent’s immediate winning threats
Avoid setting up your opponent’s fork opportunities
Keep your pieces low and connected to support future threats
Watch for diagonal wins as much as horizontal and vertical wins
Force your opponent to respond to your threats
Use odd-even move patterns to control key columns
Plan several moves ahead
Prefer moves that preserve flexibility
Do not fill a column unless it helps your position
If you cannot force a win, aim to force a draw
Learn the standard first-player winning lines
Memorize common trap patterns and fork setups
Make your opponent defend instead of attack
Control the center columns whenever possible
Always check for your own winning move before blocking
Always check for your opponent’s winning move before playing
Use the last available move in a column to create threats
Keep your threats hidden until they are hard to stop
Avoid symmetrical play when it helps your opponent
Punish mistakes immediately
Practice recognizing forced sequences quickly