Pulled a card that looks perfect and wondering if it’s worth grading? This guide gives Pokémon TCG collectors a simple way to decide, card by card: grade it, keep it raw, sell it raw, or pause to research.

You’ll learn a four-part condition check you can do at your desk (centering front and back with a simple ruler method, corners, edges, surface), how to look up current grading fees instead of guessing, and how to read sold listings, not hopeful asking prices. A break-even rule with a worked example (example numbers only) shows how to compare the grading fee, shipping and insurance against raw and graded sold prices. It also covers safe handling and shipping, and six at-home checks that are a reason to look closer before you pay to grade a card that may not be genuine.

Included: the full eBook plus three printable tools: Condition Check Sheet, Grade-or-Not Worksheet and Submission Checklist.

Honest scope: the examples use PSA’s published standards; the method works with any grading company, but you check that company’s current fees and rules. Grading is not an investment, prices go down as well as up, and no guide can promise a grade or a profit. Not affiliated with or endorsed by The Pokémon Company, Nintendo or any grading company.

7-day full refund if it isn’t useful to you.