Map the Metrics That Matter
Solvers often drown in vanity stats. Start with the metrics that actually predict advancement: time to first foundation, number of forced redeals, waste pile churn, and tilt score. Focus on four pillars so your coach can diagnose the right habit fast.
Execution Metrics
- - Average decision window per move
- - Waste pile resets per solved game
- - Tableaus cleared without redeal
Mental State Metrics
- - Heart rate variability shifts via Apple Watch
- - Subjective focus rating logged post-session
- - Tilt indicator triggered when you misplay twice within 30 seconds
Build the Numbers Performance Notebook
Numbers is flexible enough to mimic advanced analytics suites. Set up a workbook with three tabs: Session Log, Pattern Library, and Coaching Agenda. Share it with your coach through iCloud with change tracking enabled.
Tab 1: Session Log
Columns for date, session type, deck seed, solve result, move count, redeals, HRV delta, and mood rating. Apply conditional color scales so red flags stand out immediately.
Tab 2: Pattern Library
Store screenshots of problem boards, annotated with Apple Pencil. Attach quick voice memos explaining the decision path. Tag entries with scenario labels like "early blockage" or "late suit starvation".
Tab 3: Coaching Agenda
Rolling list of discussion topics, action items, and upcoming drilling assignments. Use checkboxes so both player and coach can mark completion.
Automate Data Capture with Shortcuts
Manual logging kills focus. Automate as much capture as possible so your Numbers sheets stay accurate without constant typing.
Shortcut: Log Solitaire Session
Prompts for deck ID, result, and mood rating. Pulls heart rate metrics from Health, saves a JSON file to iCloud, and appends a new row to Numbers via the Quick Link feature.
Shortcut: Capture Board State
Runs a screenshot shortcut, opens Markup for Apple Pencil annotations, and files the image into the Pattern Library folder with automatic naming by date and scenario.
Shortcut: Coach Sync Digest
Compiles the last five session records, exports a PDF summary, and delivers it via Mail with a templated agenda so your coach can triage quickly.
Integrate Feedback Loops
Analytics only work when insights feed back into training blocks. Schedule recurring rituals so you convert dashboard highlights into deliberate practice.
Weekly Retro
Review the Session Log every Sunday evening. Tag three strengths, three leaks, and set the training focus for the week. Share the notes with your coach inside Freeform.
Match Day Standup
Run a ten-minute review on competition mornings. Filter the Pattern Library for similar deck seeds, rehearse responses, and check the Coaching Agenda for last-minute reminders.
Security and Privacy Considerations
Coaching data is sensitive. Protect your playbook and comply with tournament integrity policies.
- Enable two-factor authentication on Apple ID accounts shared with coaches.
- Use end-to-end encrypted Notes or Messages for strategy discussions rather than third-party apps.
- Rotate access permissions every season and remove former staff immediately.