Why can’t I deal when a column is empty?

If Deal does nothing, look for an empty tableau column. Classic Spider Solitaire—and SpiderImp—require every column to hold at least one card before the stock can deal.

What is the empty-column rule?

A deal adds one face-up card to each of the ten columns. If one column is empty, that deal would skip a parking space you still need for rearranging runs. Fill the empty column with any card (or a movable same-suit stack), then click Deal (or press D / Space).

Why does the rule exist?

Empty columns are the main way to unpack mixed stacks and expose face-down cards. Dealing into a hole floods the tableau and often locks the position. The rule forces you to keep at least one “hand” free before the next ten cards arrive.

How do I fill an empty column quickly?

• Move any single top card into the hole, or a same-suit descending run.
• Prefer moving a King (or a long same-suit run headed by a King) into the empty if you are building toward a complete sequence.
• Do not deal just because you are stuck scanning—use Hint (H) and Undo (Z) first.

Does Daily Challenge use the same rule?

Yes. Daily Challenge uses the same Spider rules, including the empty-column deal lock. Only the starting cards are shared for the calendar day. See Daily Challenge.