Extra Turns, Extra Combats, and Skipping Steps

Extra turns

Effects that give an extra turn usually say when that turn happens, often “after this one.” The turn structure of the extra turn is normal unless the effect modifies it (rule 500).

An extra turn is a complete turn inserted into the sequence of turns; it is not merely an extra untap or combat. The active player for that turn follows the effect’s instructions, and the turn still has beginning, precombat main, combat, postcombat main, and ending phases unless another effect changes or skips one of them.

If several effects create extra turns, the effects determine their relative order. A player can receive multiple consecutive turns, but each one still has its own turn-based actions and duration boundaries. “Until end of turn” refers to the particular turn in which that effect was created; it does not automatically carry through every later extra turn.

Extra combats

“Additional combat phase” effects insert another combat phase into the turn structure. Creatures that attacked in the first combat are still considered to have attacked this turn unless something untaps them or grants permission to attack again.

Skipping turns, steps, and phases

Effects can skip turns or parts of turns. A skipped step or phase is simply not performed; triggers that would have triggered at the beginning of that step won’t happen if the step never begins.

“This turn” vs “the next turn”

Duration language matters. “Until end of turn” ends during the cleanup step of the current turn. “Until your next turn” lasts longer. Extra turns can extend or interact with these durations in ways that surprise people.

Common mistakes

Making untapping assumptions after an extra combat without an untap effect.

Expecting upkeep triggers when an effect skipped the upkeep.

Misreading which turn an extra turn is taken.

Source and verification

Sections 500–503 (turn structure) and the specific card effects that modify them. At a sanctioned event, ask the event judge.

Related guides

• How the Stack and Priority Work in Magic

  A plain-English breakdown of one of Magic's most misunderstood mechanics: the stack, priority, and what really happens when two players both want to act at the same time.

• The Combat Phase, Step by Step

  A complete walkthrough of Magic's combat phase — every step, every priority window, and the rules that govern what actually happens when creatures fight.