How to Read the NMJL Card | American Mahjong Beginner Guide | Printable PDF | Color System + "C" Rule Explained

Finally understand what you're looking at.

The NMJL card is the most confusing part of American Mahjong for beginners and this 5-page printable guide breaks it down completely, in plain English, with no overwhelm.

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Page 1 — What is the NMJL Card?
Every section explained (Consecutive Runs, Like Numbers, Evens, Odds, 
369, Quints, Winds + Dragons, Singles + Pairs, and the Year hand). 
Plus: the 2026 note that trips everyone up — the 0 in the year hand 
is the White Dragon (Soap tile).

Page 2 — The Color System
Colors tell you HOW MANY suits to use, not which ones. 1 color, 
2 colors, 3 colors — all explained clearly with examples. Plus how 
Flowers and Winds work as neutral tiles, shown in blue on the card.

Page 3 — Dragons + The C Rule
Which Dragon pairs with which suit. What the letter C at the end of a 
line actually means and how it changes the way you play that hand. 
Open vs. Concealed compared side by side.

Page 4 — Card Sections by Difficulty
All 9 sections listed with difficulty level and exactly what to look 
for in your rack after the Charleston. Beginner, Intermediate, 
and Advanced — so you always know where to start.

Page 5 — Quick Reference Guide
Every key term defined, including Pair, Pung, Kong, and Quint. 
Print this page and keep it next to the card until it all clicks.

DESIGNED FOR BEGINNERS
No mahjong experience needed. Written in warm, friendly language by me, Kaley, a mahjong teacher and boy mama who wants you to learn the joy of mahjong!

PAIRS PERFECTLY WITH
The Mahjong 101 Student Guide (sold separately in my shop), together they cover everything you need for your first game.

WHAT YOU GET
- Instant digital download (PDF)
- 5 pages, letter size
- Print at home or save to your phone
- Walnut and caramel branded design

No physical item will be shipped.
Questions? Email me or find me on Instagram @mahjwithkaley