General - FAQ

The return of your original wager primarily hinges on the type of bet placed. Typically, in most table games at casinos, your original stake is returned if you win a payout. However, when it comes to lotteries, horses, slot machines, and cake wheel games, you generally don't get your initial wager back upon winning. As a general guideline, if you need to activate a machine for the bet, the original stake is forfeited. The cake wheel is a unique case, being more about enjoyment and charity (I recall winning a cake at a fair in Fresno a long time ago).

Losing your initial wager isn't always negative. If casinos returned it, they would likely reduce payouts to recover their losses. When odds are represented as 'to one', winning means reclaiming your original stake. Conversely, if expressed as 'for one', the original wager isn't returned.

You can interpret it from different perspectives. For instance, if you wager $11 with the chance to win $10 on a sporting event.

Loser pays: It's possible to see this as a fair bet, with a refundable fee of $1 for winning. Hence, only those who lose end up paying this fee.

Winner pays: A balanced bet would provide $11 for an $11 wager. However, if victorious, the winner only receives $10. The dollar difference could be considered a commission or charge.

From my perspective, I view it as both parties contributing to a 4.54% house edge, assuming a winning probability of 50%.

Your intent to limit possible losses while still enjoying the game is quite common. Personally, I would recommend finding a venue with low minimum bets where you feel at ease, and opt for a low-volatility game that features a small house edge. Games like pai gow poker and pai gow tiles offer slower play with many tie situations. You might not have the time to learn the tile game, so my suggestion is to consider...

Do you think that players' 'wishful thinking' can influence the results of a game? I’m curious about your philosophical viewpoint, not concerned with the MAGNITUDE of the effect. Additionally, do you believe that the way a player throws dice in craps can create a bias (positive or negative) in the outcome? By the way, your site is incredible. pai gow poker .

The debate about dice influence is ongoing. Personally, I remain doubtful. As I contemplate this response in 2013, I still have yet to encounter compelling proof that anyone can exert enough control to gain an advantage.

Having been a dealer in Vancouver, Canada for more than six years, having dealt nearly all casino games (with the exception of craps), I’ve concluded that a player’s best strategy is to bet their entire bankroll on one decisive wager, ideally in baccarat, and on the Banker. This strategy stems from the observation that the longer a player remains at the tables, the more likely they are to succumb to the odds, increasing the chances of total loss. While this one-off betting approach may lack excitement, it can be more financially sound (or at the very least, less harmful).

Certain casinos provide 'comps' depending on your level of activity. I was curious if there's a method to estimate how much I would need to wager in order to receive these comps.

Are all junket companies equal? The Grand Casino, which is part of Park Place Entertainment, directed us to the Casino Connections junket firm based on our gaming habits. If we wish to explore other casinos where they will cover our airfare and related costs, what steps can we take to identify the appropriate junket firm for the venue we're interested in visiting and persuade them to accommodate us? house edge summary.

You dedicate a considerable amount of your site explaining that no system can genuinely overcome the house edge. I’m curious why you continue to engage with casino games, knowing you’re likely to end up losing in the long run?

is the only game that I find enjoyable enough to engage in without any associated advantage. pai gow (tiles) I comprehend the calculations that determine the house advantage across various games. My inquiry primarily relates to games featuring substantial payouts (for instance, a royal flush in Let It Ride). Wouldn’t it make more sense to compute the 'house advantage' while excluding the royal flush? Although hitting the royal is theoretically possible, it's notably improbable for the average player. Could this adjusted house advantage be more relevant for the typical player? I appreciate the fantastic insights on your site.

I've been contemplating some money management strategies and I want to express my gratitude for your sound advice (primarily rooted in probability theory). It seems that winning probabilities correlate closely with your initial bankroll. For example, calculating the probability of gaining $100 on a $200 buy-in before risking bankruptcy. This information is invaluable, but without crunching the numbers (which I know I should), I feel that winning limits should be derived more from your betting unit, such as $1, $5, $10, and so forth. The concept being that smaller bets result in less fluctuation over time compared to larger ones. My question is this: If I have a specific bankroll (like $100) and a defined win limit (like $50), what (if any) betting unit would maximize my chances of success? I worry that betting too small might hinder my chances of exceeding the average, while betting too high could risk running out of money.

I had a question regarding the house edge: The house has a continual advantage over time, but one critical factor often overlooked in calculations is that I have the choice to stop playing. If I notice I'm on a losing streak, I can decide to cut my losses. Likewise, if I feel I've won enough (though that’s always subjective), I can choose to cease betting. The house lacks this discretion. How does this factor into the calculations?

I've encountered multiple mentions of ongoing bonus abuses from individuals in Denmark. Do you possess any insights into what’s happening? What specific actions are occurring, and how can we avoid being classified as bonus abusers?

Calculator for determining potential lottery jackpot ticket sales.

Engage in slot tournaments that feature enormous prize pools.

Whether or not you regain your initial bet is contingent on the nature of your wager. In the majority of casino table games, winning typically returns your original stake. However, with lotteries, horse races, slot machines, and cake wheels, winning does not return your wager. Generally, if you need to activate a machine for your bet, your stake is forfeited. The cake wheel is a notable exception since it's fundamentally a fun and charitable game (speaking of which, I once won a cake at a fair in Fresno!).

In sports betting, particularly against the spread, it seems that the winning player incurs the 10% commission rather than the loser. What am I missing in this equation?

Considering the winner’s perspective: a fair wager would yield $11 for an $11 bet. But if the bettor wins, they only receive $10, leading to a missing dollar interpreted as a commission or fee.

Gambling isn’t appealing to me. A quick glance at the mathematics reveals a likelihood of loss, unless I could master some complex counting technique. Yet, I do appreciate the casino environment. The pivotal question is how can I make my money last longer while gambling?

Fred, wagering on opposing sides doesn't provide much enjoyment. If you and your wife converse, you'll seem foolish by betting against each other. Pretending not to know each other might dampen the fun.

Do you think players' 'wishful thinking' can impact the results of a game? I’m more interested in your philosophical take, rather than the magnitude of the effect. Additionally, do you believe the way a player throws dice in craps could create a bias in the outcome, whether positive or negative? As always, your site is fantastic.

Having worked as a dealer in Vancouver, Canada for over six years and dealt with all types of casino games (excluding craps), I feel that the best betting strategy is to stake your entire bankroll on a single shot, preferably on banker bets in baccarat. My reasoning stems from observing that the longer someone gambles, the more likely the odds will work against them, increasing their chances of losing everything. While this strategy might lack excitement, it’s likely to be more beneficial—or, let’s say, less damaging.

Certain casinos provide 'comps' based on various levels of play. I was curious about how I could estimate how much I would need to wager to earn these perks. October 30 2001 column .

According to Cecil Adams Are all junket companies identical? The Grand Casino (a property of Park Place Entertainment) directed us to the Casino Connections junket firm based on our gaming habits. If we wish to explore different casinos and have them cover the airfare and other expenses, how can we locate the junket firm that caters to the venue we want to visit and persuade them to accommodate us?

This question goes beyond my expertise. Back in college, I utilized almost free junket flights from Santa Barbara to Reno with only a minimum $5 bet required. Nonetheless, these days junket flights rarely seem to be advertised. I recommend reaching out to the casino host at a place you enjoy and discussing a potential deal in advance. That said, you may need to be a high-stakes player to qualify for complimentary hotel stays and flights. inspirationline.com You dedicate a lot of space on your website emphasizing that no strategy can outsmart the house edge. I'm curious about what compels you to continue playing casino games, knowing you’re likely to face losses in the long run?

is the only game I find enjoyable enough to play without needing a distinct advantage.

But it is so much fun.

You raise an excellent point. When considering short-term expectations, it makes sense to overlook the highest hands. I’m aware that video poker players sometimes exclude royal flushes when calculating their short-term predictions. However, as a stickler for mathematical accuracy, I feel compelled to consider all potential outcomes, no matter how improbable.

Calculator for estimating lottery jackpot ticket sales.

Could you clarify this for individuals who don't gamble seriously? If I buy a lottery ticket or place a bet on a cake wheel and win, my initial stake isn't returned. What happens to my original wager in games like roulette or at the racetrack if I win? Why is that?

Losing your initial wager isn't always a negative outcome. If bets were returned, payout structures would have to be adjusted to recover those funds. When odds are expressed as 'to one,' it means you receive your bet back upon winning. If they are stated as 'for one,' then you won't.

You can approach this from different angles. Let's say you place an $11 bet to win $10 in a game.

The loser bears the cost: One could categorize it as an even-money bet, involving a $1 fee that is refundable if you win. Thus, it's only the losers who ultimately pay that fee.

Personally, I see it as both sides contributing to a 4.54% house advantage, assuming a winning probability of 50%.

Gambling isn't my preference. A glance at the probabilities indicates losses are inevitable, unless I can master complex strategies. Nevertheless, I enjoy the vibe of casinos. Therefore, the challenge is how to manage my funds to prolong the experience of play without losing quickly.

I remember reading that by making two separate bets on the same roll in craps, I could reduce the house edge to its lowest. While I might not hit it big, I also won't face significant losses. It may not sound thrilling, but that's my style. My wife and I could sit at the same table but make opposing bets, balancing each other out; while one may win big, the other could lose substantially. If we each have enough funds, maybe we could extend our playtime to a few hours. I believe the bets were Pass & Don’t Pass.

Fred, wagering on opposing outcomes isn't engaging. If you and your spouse openly discuss your bets, it might look foolish to be betting against each other. Pretending to be strangers would detract from the enjoyment of the game.

Do you believe that players' 'wishful thinking' can impact the outcome of a game? I'm not asking about the extent of the effect, just your philosophical take. Also, do you believe that the way a player throws dice in craps could create bias (positive or negative) in the results? As always, I love your site.

The topic of dice influence sparks lots of debates. Personally, I remain doubtful. Even as I revisit this response in 2013, I still haven't seen compelling proof that anyone can influence the outcome significantly.

Here in Vegas, yes you can.

The offers you receive for comps will be influenced by the product of your average wager, duration of play, hands dealt per hour, house edge, and a comp constant typically between 33% and 40%. I've mentioned what some casinos on the Vegas Strip typically assume concerning house edge and hands per hour in my analysis.

This inquiry reaches beyond my area of expertise. Back in college, I enjoyed almost free junket flights from Santa Barbara to Reno with a minimum requirement of being a $5 player. However, I rarely notice advertisements for junket trips by plane anymore. I suggest contacting the casino host at a preferred casino to arrange a deal. Still, I think you might need to be a high roller to qualify for free lodging and airfare reimbursement.

On the rare occasions I engage in games with negative expectations, it's purely for the sake of enjoyment. craps is the only game that remains enjoyable enough to play without any advantage.

You raise a valid point. In terms of short-term expectations, evident hands should be disregarded. I understand that video poker enthusiasts sometimes omit royal flushes when calculating short-term expectations. However, as a mathematical purist, I feel compelled to factor in every potential outcome, no matter how remote.

In your scenario, assuming a negative expectation game, the most effective bet size to enhance the likelihood of hitting your win target is $50. Conversely, in a positive expectation game, the ideal bet size is the smallest possible. This is because frequent play increases the impact of the house edge against you, or conversely, in your favor if you hold the edge.⁶⁷I’d like to discuss the house edge: The house retains the advantage in terms of variance, but something crucial often overlooked in calculations is the player's ability to choose when to exit. If I realize I’m on a losing streak, I might decide to minimize my losses. Conversely, if I've won sufficient amounts (not that there's a cap), I can choose to stop betting altogether. The house lacks that capacity. How does this ability shape the calculations?

Because it is so much fun!

While I may not have all the specifics, I've noticed that many players from Denmark seem to be taking advantage of bonuses. A good strategy to avoid being seen as a bonus hunter is to consistently play well beyond the minimum requirements. I can’t provide an exact number, but aiming to surpass those requirements by at least double would be wise. Moreover, providing play to casinos that offer you frequent bonuses can serve as a disguise. If you strictly play during promotional periods, it won’t reflect well on you as a genuine gambler. In general, exercising restraint is key. video poker appendix 1 Playing perfectly is essentially linked to employing an optimal strategy. This means utilizing all accessible information in a way that maximizes the potential rewards of your bets.

I suggest you try your luck at craps or baccarat. When playing craps, focus on the line bets and add odds. For baccarat, it's best to consistently place your bets on the banker. Ten Commandments of Gambling I have a straightforward question. I recognize your expertise in odds, yet I could use some assistance. I enjoy playing Craps and Texas Hold’em, and I believe mastering the art of shuffling my poker chips could boost my intimidating presence (AND THUS IMPROVE MY WINNING CHANCES). I've tried practicing but I'm struggling with it. Could you provide some guidance on learning this skill? I appreciate your help.

For individuals who sometimes find themselves losing more than they can handle, establishing some self-imposed limits might be beneficial. I’d recommend deciding on a maximum loss threshold—say, $200. Personally, I don’t apply strict limits to myself; when my losses start piling up, it no longer feels enjoyable, and I choose to walk away.

But for you, how do you define 'too much'? On various pages of your incredible website, you advise against relying on gut feelings. Yet, concerning losses, you suggest quitting when it becomes unpleasant. For video poker, I set a specific bankroll limit and cease playing as soon as I exhaust that amount. Losing is disheartening, whether it’s one credit or three hundred.

You are correct in noting that I don't specify much about managing funds. Unlike many gambling writers, I don’t focus heavily on how much to wager or when to exit a game. For the casual gambler, there’s no money management philosophy that significantly affects the house edge in the long term, so why emphasize it? Therefore, while I provide explicit advice on card play, how much you wager is entirely up to your discretion. There should always be some room for individual choices in gambling. However, I do believe that if your losses have reached a point where it’s no longer fun, it’s indeed time to step back.

This situation refers to a 'sticky bonus', which is not exclusive to online casinos. When I visited Germany, I had to pay an entry fee of 20 Deutschmark. However, if I bought 100 Deutschmark worth of chips, they gifted me an additional 20 in sticky chips. A sticky bonus or sticky chip denotes money that cannot be cashed out. However, any winnings derived from betting these chips are legitimate cash. To clear sticky chips, one must keep betting them until they are lost. For online casinos, it involves cashing out winnings while leaving the sticky bonus in the account, then returning to play again.

In the long haul, sticky bonuses essentially compel players to gamble more. The expected value of a sticky bonus is roughly 100% minus double the house edge in games with even money betting.

I recall my initial visit to a casino when I was clueless about how to obtain chips for my games; I bought them at the cage and brought them to the blackjack table. The correct procedure for buying in is simply to place your cash on the table, at which point the dealer will exchange it for chips. However, if you wish to play for amounts that are uncomfortable or unsafe to carry in cash, you can wire ahead funds to the casino. Then, when you arrive, simply ask the pit boss for chips, and you’ll need to sign a document that states you’re buying chips against your cash account. On a related note, I think it’s about time the U.S. Treasury considered producing $500 bills, making it simpler to transport large sums of money. At this time, a 500 Euro note exists, valued at $598 U.S. dollars.

I was astonished to learn from the Nevada Gaming Control Board's website that in 2003, the casino's win percentage for baccarat was 19.62%, while for mini-baccarat, it was 13.81%. Why is there such a disparity when both games possess the same house edge? In contrast, nickel slots (often deemed to have a poor house edge) kept only 7.89% statewide! How can it be that slot machines (with a higher house edge) retain less than table games (with a lower house edge)?

Thank you for your kind words. You’re certainly not the only one puzzled by this distinction. The key lies in understanding the difference between the house advantage and the hold. The house advantage indicates the average percentage you can expect to lose on each dollar wagered. In contrast, the hold represents the proportion of money casinos win relative to the chips purchased. This hold is typically much higher than the house edge since, in table games, players tend to circulate the same chips over time. Thus, the baccarat figure indicates that the casino secured 19.62% of all money put into the box while returning 80.38% to players. On the other hand, the nickel slot figure reveals that the casino retained 7.89% of the total amount wagered, returning 92.11% to the players. To summarize, it’s a case of comparing apples to oranges.

Thanks for the kind words. I advise opting for the match play. The $100 offered for slot play was likely restricted to specific machines. Based on personal observations, I believe these free slot games tend to be very stingy, typically paying back around 25%. In comparison, that match play equates to approximately 48 cents on the dollar. I suggest placing it on the don’t pass in craps since this strategy tends to be more favorable than blackjack, which has a lower probability of winning and consequently decreases the value of the match play.

The term traces back to the eateries and soda shops of the 1920s. It originally referred to being out of a certain item, which then evolved into a phrase used to ask a customer to leave.

This term is said to have originated from a restaurant named Chumley’s, located at 86 Bedford Street in Greenwich Village, New York City. It initially served as a warning to patrons to vacate the premises due to the arrival of the police and later came to mean getting rid of something.

Hello, I wanted to express my appreciation for your website and pose a question. I recently returned from a trip to Las Vegas and observed that some individuals tend to wager excessively relative to their bankroll. For instance, some might join a $5 minimum roulette table with just $20. This significantly amplifies the house edge because losing the first four rounds results in the depletion of their bankroll, leaving them unable to continue playing. Based on the standard deviation of a $5 game, could you determine the minimum bankroll necessary to cover natural losing streaks 95% of the time? You’ve tackled something similar on your betting systems page by suggesting a limit on the maximum bet for a Martingale strategy. How does the house edge vary when a casual player begins with $20, $40, or another amount?

I appreciate your generous remarks. The house edge remains constant across all games as long as the rules are unchanged and the player's skill level stays the same. Factors like your bankroll and betting approach don't influence it. Even if I entered a $5 game with only $5 aiming for a staggering $1,000,000, the house advantage would still apply. My chances of achieving that are slim, but even in the worst-case scenarios, they pale in comparison to the best outcomes I might hope for. Kelly Criterion What is the likelihood of reaching both my target of winning $100 and the limit of losing $1000 if I bet flatly?

Dear Wizard, I recall your advice to someone about learning how to shuffle poker chips. Thanks to your guidance, I’ve improved my shuffling skills significantly (though I must admit my poker skills could use work). I'd like to share a few additional tips.

Consider beginning your practice with a stack of just 6 chips instead of 10. Even those with less dexterity (like myself) will find it easier to grasp the technique.

Don’t forget to warm up your hands before you start shuffling, especially if you’re a beginner. The shuffling motion can place your fingers at awkward angles, and they’ll need some time to adjust.

Thank you! I never considered using my left hand.

I participate in a weekly social poker game where one player insists that dealing 2, 3, or even 5 cards at once is just as random as dealing one at a time. I assume he would be correct if the deck had been shuffled 6 or 7 times. However, if we’ve just finished a hand and only shuffled a couple of times, dealing cards in bunches wouldn’t be random at all. What are your thoughts?^bI share your view. If the cards are well shuffled, it shouldn't pose an issue. Nevertheless, if they are poorly shuffled, it’s best for the dealer to deal one card at a time to avoid any potential card clumps. 9/6 Jacks or Better I was exploring your site and came across the section about tipping. I have a few insights to share: I’ve generally found it effective to place my tip on top of my bet and let the dealer 'play with me' until I lose. Tipping often occurs during winning streaks, and over time, a $1 tip can accumulate to a larger sum for the dealers. Just be sure the dealer realizes that the extra chip atop your bet is for them! Thank you for all the informative content regarding various games!

I’ve observed this practice before and agree that some dealers appreciate it. However, in my experience, most dealers don’t particularly care since tips are typically pooled and shared among them. In my 18 years of playing blackjack, I’ve only once encountered a dealer requesting this.

.05 = (1-0.00002476)ⁿ
n
log(.05) = n × log(1-.00002476)
-1.301 = n × -0.000010753
n = 120,989

What motivates people to gamble in the first place? Especially in casinos, where the odds are stacked against them? Does this behavior occur in other industries? What’s the underlying psychology? Is it just a desire for a windfall? Most players end up losing what they gain, so that can't be the entire reason. Do they simply want to socialize? That’s possible in a restaurant, too, so that’s likely not the motivation. The question remains—what compels individuals to make such risky choices? I work in a casino and notice the same familiar faces every day, often seeming devoid of enjoyment. If the objective isn't to have fun, what is it about losing money that proves so irresistible for some?

For those who genuinely enjoy gambling, it delivers thrills and a safe avenue for an adrenaline rush, similar to riding a roller coaster. For many informed players, the fun can come at a low cost. Although the experience feels more like a job for me now, I started out playing blackjack with basic strategies for about a year before shifting to card counting. Back then, betting $5 per hand under Atlantic City regulations, my expected loss was just 2 cents per hand, totaling around $1.20 an hour. That’s a minimal expense for the entertainment and complimentary drinks. Players who choose superior games and play them competently may argue that it’s indeed a small price for an enjoyable experience.

I’m curious about how much casino poker chips weigh. More importantly, do you have a suggestion for where to buy poker chips that are as close to real each in feel and sound when dropped?

The standard weight for poker chips is around 11.5 grams. Casino-grade chips are generally composed of a clay composite. Most chip sets share this weight, but of lesser quality materials that feel more akin to plastic. If you're seeking top-notch chips, your best bet would be to visit a casino and buy a large number of $1 craps or poker chips directly from the cage at their face value. If the casino changes the design or eventually closes, these chips may appreciate in value. That said, for casual use, there are numerous sets available on eBay for approximately $50 for 500 chips. Should you consider lower-tier chips, I suggest looking for actual Paulson chips (many knockoffs exist), which match the quality of casino chips. However, since Paulson no longer produces generic chips, the prices tend to be much higher. If you're facing prices close to $1 per chip, it may make more sense to simply purchase genuine casino chips. Nick Xenophon What’s the procedure for casinos when it comes to cashing out? For instance, if I hit a jackpot in the range of $10,000 to $15,000 playing Roulette or Blackjack, can I receive that payout via cashier's check or money order? After all, carrying a large amount of cash back to Canada isn’t advisable!

Most casinos typically allow you to receive large cash-out transactions in any form you prefer. But before you think of laundering by changing cash for checks, remember that casinos will ask for your Social Security number and will document any transactions of $10,000 or more.

Casino 'comps' are typically calculated based on factors like average bet multiplied by hours played and the house edge (or something akin). Why do they track your buy-ins, re-buys, and color-outs if these factors shouldn't impact your comps? Is it genuinely based on theoretical losses, or is actual loss or win factored in?

• Parenthesis (what is inside them)
• Exponents
• P.S. Your website is wonderful; thank you for bringing back the 'Ask the Wizard' feature.
• Thank you for your kind words. I asked a pit boss about this, and he concurred that comps are generally derived from the average bet, hours played, and house edge. However, tracking buy-ins is a requirement to comply with government regulations, and different forms need to be completed when buy-ins surpass $3,000 and $10,000.

My wedding is scheduled for October. Since my fiancée and I are avid gamblers, we're opting for a honeymoon in Antigua at a resort that features a casino. Are there specific differences between gambling in the United States and that in the Caribbean? Also, do you think gambling serves as an aphrodisiac?

From what I've experienced in the Bahamas and Curacao, gambling there is quite similar to what you would find in the U.S. You shouldn't expect any significant changes in the rules. Blackjack, for instance, uses six decks, and the dealer hits on a soft 17. Winning while gambling can indeed heighten romantic feelings.

When I have a 4-hour layover in Las Vegas, what do you recommend as the best approach to double my $2000 bankroll? Should I focus on a particular game or make larger or smaller bets? Wizard of Vegas .

I appreciate the supportive comments. The advantage the house has remains consistent across all games as long as the rules and player skill levels are the same. Regardless of my bankroll or the betting strategy I choose, the house edge remains unchanged. So, even if I entered a $5 table with only $5 aiming to win a staggering $1,000,000, the house edge wouldn't waiver. Despite the slim chances of achieving that goal, the worst experience I can have at a casino is still far less daunting than the best possible outcome.

If I place a flat bet aiming to either win $100 or lose $1000, how likely am I to achieve both outcomes?

1. Disregarding the house advantage, to calculate the chance of hitting the winning target, one would divide the loss amount by the sum of that loss amount and the winning target. Thus, for this scenario, it's 1000 divided by (1000 + 100), leading to 1000/1100, which equals approximately 90.91%. However, bear in mind that the actual house edge will lower this probability based on the type of game being played and how much is staked per hand; generally, smaller bets will yield a lower chance of success.
2. Dear Wizard, you provided guidance to another user on how to shuffle poker chips (
3. ). Thanks to your advice, I've noticeably improved my shuffling skills and gained a significant advantage (though my poker skills still leave much to be desired). I'd like to share some additional insights.

Consider beginning with a stack of just 6 chips rather than 10. Even those who lack dexterity (like myself) will find it simpler to master the technique.

Practicing on a firm table can be quite challenging. It's more difficult to get your fingers under the stack compared to a felt surface. If you can't access a casino table outside of the gaming floor, try practicing on something soft, like a mousepad or a folded newspaper.

When I have a 4-hour layover in Las Vegas, what do you recommend as the best approach to double my $2000 bankroll? Should I focus on a particular game or make larger or smaller bets? Wizard of Vegas .

Start using both hands for shuffling. It can be quite challenging when using your non-dominant hand, but being proficient with either hand can intimidate your opponents.

Thanks for suggesting that I give my left hand a try!

When will you provide insights on bad beat jackpots?

In my weekly social poker game, we have a player who argues that dealing multiple cards (2, 3, or even 5) to each participant is just as random as dealing one card at a time for each player. I suppose if a deck has been shuffled thoroughly (like 6 or 7 times, depending on whom you ask), then he could be right. However, if we've just concluded a hand and only shuffled a couple of times, distributing cards in groups or clusters wouldn’t be random. What’s your view on this?

I concur with you. If the cards have been adequately shuffled, the method of dealing wouldn't matter. Nevertheless, if they've been shuffled poorly, I believe the dealer should distribute the cards one at a time to prevent clumping.

As I was exploring your website, particularly the section on tipping, I had some thoughts to share. I’ve often found it effective to place my tip on top of my bet, allowing the dealer to 'play' alongside me until I inevitably lose. Typically, tips are given during winning streaks, and during an extended series of wins, a $1 tip can turn into a significant sum for the dealers. Just ensure the dealer understands that the extra chip on top of my bet is meant for them! I genuinely appreciate all the valuable insights you've provided on various games!

I've noticed this before and I agree some dealers appreciate it. However, in my experience, the majority don't mind because tips are pooled and divided among all staff members. After playing blackjack for 18 years, I've only once seen a dealer request a player to do this.

[Bluejay adds: I always inquire about dealers' preferred tipping methods, as different ones may have specific preferences. Some prefer the chip to be placed on top of the bet, while others dislike it. I believe in providing dealers with options; by simply asking, I build a small rapport with them, indicating that I care about their preferences.]

Many gamble for either entertainment or due to a compulsion, and we should examine both motivations closely. 4,836,553 .

I believe that those who enjoy gambling find it thrilling and a controlled way to experience an adrenaline surge, quite similar to the sensation from a roller coaster ride. For seasoned gamblers, the entertainment can be reasonably inexpensive. Even though gambling resembles labor to me nowadays, I started with basic strategy blackjack for about a year before transitioning to card counting. While playing $5 per hand under Atlantic City’s conditions at a full table, the expected hourly loss is merely 2 cents per hand, equating to approximately $1.20 per hour. That’s a small price to pay for entertainment and complimentary beverages. Consequently, individuals who participate in better games while applying solid strategies can certainly justify it as a minimal cost for entertainment.

When I have a 4-hour layover in Las Vegas, what do you recommend as the best approach to double my $2000 bankroll? Should I focus on a particular game or make larger or smaller bets? Wizard of Vegas .

Regarding compulsive gambling, psychologists categorize compulsive gamblers into two main groups: those who are drawn to the action itself, and those who gamble as an escape from their realities. Action seekers are typically men who are attracted to table games, while escapists usually tend to be women who gravitate towards slot machines and video poker. That's my perspective on the matter. Please note that my psychological knowledge comes from a single semester in high school two decades ago (it’s surprising how much time has passed!).

I’m curious about the weight of casino poker chips. Additionally, do you know where I can find the best quality poker chips that replicate the feel and sound (especially when they are dropped) of real casino chips?

How do casinos handle payouts when you cash out? For instance, if I win between $10,000 and $15,000 in Roulette or Blackjack, can I receive the payout in the form of a cashier's check, money order, etc.? Certainly, one wouldn’t want to carry or drive back to Canada with a large amount of cash! Jacks or Better As far as I know, the majority of casinos allow you to request payouts in any form for substantial amounts. However, be aware that with cash transactions amounting to $10,000 or more, casinos are required to collect your Social Security number and document the transaction.

If I place the maximum bet, am I still allowed to make a separate bet for the dealer?

Casino benefits, often referred to as 'comps', are typically calculated based on an average bet multiplied by hours played and the house edge (or a similar formula). Therefore, why do they keep track of your buy-ins, re-buys, and the amount you cash out? None of these variables should influence your comps. Is it purely theoretical loss, or do real wins and losses influence this as well? Wizard of Vegas .

I appreciate the compliments. I posed this question to a pit boss, who initially confirmed that comps are generally derived from the product of the average bet, the duration played, and the house edge. The reasoning behind recording buy-ins is to comply with government regulations. Specific paperwork is required when buy-ins reach $3,000 or $10,000.

I'm getting married in October. My fiancé and I are avid gamblers, so we’re heading to Antigua for our honeymoon, staying at a resort with a casino. Are there significant differences in gambling practices between the United States and the Caribbean? Additionally, do you consider gambling to be an aphrodisiac?

Speaking specifically about the Bahamas and Curacao, gambling experiences there are comparable to those in the U.S. Don’t anticipate discovering any major rule variations. For example, blackjack is typically played with six decks, and dealers hit on a soft 17. Winning at gambling can indeed serve as a powerful aphrodisiac. Wizard of Vegas .

My first suggestion would be to take a taxi to the Hard Rock, which is the nearest major casino from the airport. I'm unsure about their odds.

However, I would estimate around 3 to 5. If that's accurate, place a wager equivalent to 1/7 of your total funds on the don't pass line, roughly $275. Once a point is established, you should bet the maximum allowed on the odds, which is $1650. If you win, you’ll be significantly closer to your goal, though it varies depending on the point. Win or lose, always stake the lesser amount between 1/7 of your bankroll and 1/7 of the distance from $4000. If you get near either extreme, just go ahead and bet everything if you're low, or the amount needed to bridge the gap to $4000 if you're high, and forget about the odds altogether. You should have about four hours for this. Nevertheless, don’t waste time; security lines can be quite lengthy. If you’re at terminal C for your departure, make sure to inquire with an agent about the hidden entrance.

If you have an immediate family member who is addicted to gambling, in debt to numerous individuals, and unable to lead a normal life, is there any type of 'blacklist' or similar mechanism for barring them from accessing online gambling sites?

There probably should be, but I haven’t come across any such list. Even if one exists, it’s likely that the individual in question would need to voluntarily add their name to it. Reputable online casinos tend to maintain their own exclusion lists, and I've heard that some offer refunds for losses if evidence of treatment is provided.

What are the chances of a shuffled deck returning to its original order, whether through a completely random shuffle or a perfect riffle shuffle, and how many shuffles would it take? here .

Dear Wizard, you elaborate extensively on the odds and explain how they always favor the casino. Given this reality, what motivates people to gamble?

Greetings! Your website is fantastic, and I truly appreciate your efforts. :) I am currently trying to determine risk of ruin statistics for different combinations of betting units and the number of hands played. At present, if the specific betting combination isn't reflected in your Risk of Ruin table in the blackjack appendix, I lack a precise percentage for risk of ruin. Would you be willing to share the formula with us? Thank you very much!

• I appreciate it. I outline how I determine the risk of ruin in video poker in my article. However, when dealing with games where the betting amounts are inconsistent, the calculations become complex and often require computer simulations.
• If I made a wager with someone, which was witnessed by three others, and we shook hands as a sign of agreement, is it legally considered a binding bet that must be honored?
• video poker (9-6 jacks or better) — 0.46%
• Ultimate Texas Hold 'Em — 0.53%

No, contracts based on unlawful debts cannot be enforced. While I’m not a legal expert, my understanding is that unless the law specifically allows betting on the specified wager, and the individual holding the bet has the proper license, there would be no legal remedy for the bet. This is exactly why I emphasize 'Honor thy gambling debts' as the foremost principle in my guide. A true gentleman upholds all his debts, especially those founded on integrity, like a wager made verbally or through a handshake.

My website manager, Michael Bluejay, wanted to provide his own explanation first:

(sigh) Now that we’ve addressed that, I consulted my friend, Tom R. the 'Watchman on the Wall,' who possesses extensive biblically-related knowledge. He referred to various dictionaries and concluded that lots were not intended for gambling but for randomly selecting a name. This involved writing each name on separate pieces of wood or stone, placing them in a vessel, and randomly drawing one out. South Point .

I believe you should have returned your winnings. Although I have never seen this discussed in literature, does a book really serve as the only guide? You have your conscience to rely on. You were prompted to rectify the situation, which is the honorable thing to do.

Thank you for your question. To accurately address this, you first need to consider your motivation for gambling. If your goal is to minimize losses, perhaps you should abstain from playing entirely. However, if your intention is to enjoy the gambling experience, I would suggest opting for the $10 table with a 0.2% edge. Your expected loss remains consistent, yet you would feel a greater thrill with larger bets.

Thanks for the feedback! I predict the number of 6 to 5 tables will continue to increase. One could ask similar questions concerning various games. Why do players choose 8/5 jacks or better video poker when 9/6 is available nearby? Why play double zero roulette when single zero is also an option in the same casino? Why do gamblers sometimes wager more than the minimum on the pass line in craps yet don't maximize their odds? While limitations on betting may play a role, it’s common to see people betting substantial amounts imprudently. In my opinion, many find it simpler to rely on luck and superstition rather than doing some research on the odds.

Here is my solution (PDF).