Question: What is considered “racking one’s tile? Isn’t tapping the same thing?

Answer: Racking occurs when a tile is fully placed on the sloped part of one’s rack. Tapping or merely touching your tile is not considered placing your tile on your rack. Although racking one’s tile is not mandatory, it is highly recommended because it closes the window of opportunity for another player to call the previously thrown tile.

Please keep in mind, If you’ve been taught to tap your tile on the top of your rack, you’ve been taught incorrectly. There is no such thing as tapping in Mah Jongg and definitely does not close the window of opportunity.

Source: Mah Jongg Made Easy 2024,  pg. 17, #8