FPLHERMESStrategy · 7 min read
FPL tips that actually gain points: 12 habits from a prediction model
Most FPL tips are opinions. These come from what a points model rewards over a whole season: playing time, planning ahead and avoiding expensive habits.
Updated 20 October 2026
Picking players
- 1. Minutes before everything. A player who doesn't start scores nothing, however good his stats
- 2. Judge fixtures over four to six gameweeks, not one
- 3. Spend where points are: premium attackers usually score more than premium defenders
- 4. Don't ignore defensive contributions: some centre-backs and holding midfielders now score steadily without goals
FPL points system 2026/27 →Defensive contributions explained →
Transfers
- 5. Don't chase last week's haul. You pay a higher price for points that have already happened
- 6. Roll a free transfer when no move clearly helps
- 7. Only take a −4 hit if the new player gains more than 4 points over the time you'll keep him
- 8. Make transfers late in the week when you can, after team news, unless a price rise really matters
Captaincy
- 9. Leading your mini-league? Captain the safe pick. Chasing? Consider the higher-ceiling option
- 10. Look at the range of outcomes, not just the average
Chips
- 11. Use your first set of chips by Gameweek 19. Unused chips are lost
- 12. Wildcard when your squad needs four or more changes, not after one bad week
Want this done for your team?
Upload a screenshot of your FPL team to FPLHERMES and it applies these rules to your squad: who to sell, who to buy, your best eleven and your captain.
Frequently asked
- What is the most important FPL tip?
- Pick players who will play. Minutes decide every other source of points.