Welcome to our in-depth FAQ. We’ve scoured the internet for the top questions surrounding gambling psychology, casino culture, and how to become a better gambler. Whether you’re a novice player looking to sharpen your skills, or a gambling enthusiast entertaining his curiosity, this is your guide!

How can I Improve My Gambling Skills and Strategies?

So, playing for fun isn’t enough for you. You want to play to win. We can’t blame you for it. The good news is there are things you can start doing right now to improve your gambling game. The bad news is there isn’t any cookie-cutter way to see profit instantly. We won’t sugarcoat this: whenever you’re playing against a casino, the odds are more often than not against you, and overcoming this disadvantage will not be easy. But if you’re reading this article, we will assume you’re not opposed to the challenge.

What is the smartest way to gamble? / How to be a smart gambler?

A successful gambler is a smart gambler, and playing smart means doing your homework. Take the time to research games with favorable odds. If you're just diving into the gambling world, it's a good idea to focus on one game initially. Study the best strategies for that particular game and practice for free online. Cultivating a disciplined approach to gambling is key to long-term success.

What gambling game requires the most skill?

While many casino games rely heavily on luck, there are some where skill plays a more significant role. We recommend games where you can generate a positive expected value (+EV) over the long run. Here are some skill-based casino games you should consider:

Blackjack, a classic player-versus-casino card game, can achieve a house edge of less than 1% when played with a flawless basic strategy. While this is a solid advantage, it might not guarantee long-term profits. To secure a positive Expected Value (EV), mastering card counting, also known as advantage play, is essential. It's worth noting that, contrary to common misconceptions, card counting is not illegal. However, many establishments might not frown upon it, so choose your venue wisely. If you're exploring online blackjack, opt for tables that offer more hands per hour for a better shot at meaningful profits.

Poker has a high potential Expected Value (EV) among casino games. It's a player-versus-player card game known for its intricate decision-making and psychology. To maximize profits, players should first grasp the fundamental rules and strategies and then move on to studying “Game Theory Optimal” (GTO). That being said, it's crucial always to consider the rake—the casino's commission— which can cut into your profits or even turn your EV negative.

Like blackjack, video poker comes with its basic strategy, telling players the optimal decision in any situation. By selecting the right game type and executing flawless play, surpassing the 100% Expected Value (EV) threshold is conceivable. For instance, the 10/7 Double Bonus variant boasts an EV of 100.17%. However, to genuinely increase your odds of making a profit, you should use features like jackpots and casino promotions.

What skills do gamblers need?

The skills you will need when gambling vary depending on the game. Some helpful skills include memorizing information, maintaining a focused mindset, and managing your bankroll effectively.

How can I improve my gambling skills?

Improving your gambling skills requires discipline and practice. Take time to study the game you are trying to get good at. Practice with free online versions of that game. If you’re serious about improving, consider investing in training apps. Here are some helpful blackjack and poker resources to get you started.

Is gambling a skill or luck?

Gambling will always be heavily dependent on luck. Over the short term, even perfect plays can and will yield losses, so it's crucial to brace yourself for these swings in luck. However, spread over a more extended period, and supposing you play consistently, your earnings should reflect that game's house edge/EV. If you are playing a positive EV game, you can expect short-term fluctuations but long-term gains. If you are playing a negative expectation game, you might win or lose in the short term, but you can expect a net loss over a longer period. This is why, excluding promotions and other special deals, slots are usually a loser’s game.

How to gamble without losing money?

The short answer: You can’t.

The slightly less short answer: Gambling will always involve both winning and losing money. Short-term uncertainty is a given whenever you gamble due to its inherent improbability. If you want to “gamble” without actually wagering money, try an online free version of your preferred casino game.

How do you gamble like a pro?

Gambling pros dedicate time, money, and effort to perfecting their craft. A professional sports bettor will stay up to date with the sport they wager on, possessing in-depth knowledge about teams, coaches, player transfers, and more. They will know everything about the teams, coaches, player transfers, etc. Professional card counter or poker players are masters of game theory and will consistently put in the hours to turn a profit.

By now, you see how long-term success hinges on consistently playing quality hands or placing positive EV bets. In reality, playing to win is more like a job than entertainment. If you don’t want to take the magic out of your favorite casino game, this path may not be for you.

What are the Statistics and Facts About Gambling?

How does gambling stimulate the brain?

Gambling stimulates the brain by triggering the release of dopamine, a feel-good neurotransmitter. Surprisingly, this neurochemical response occurs not only during wins but even when experiencing losses. This influx of happy chemicals can make it hard for some people to quit while engrossed in the game. Beyond dopamine, gambling offers other potential rewards, such as money, social engagement, and overall enjoyment.

What is the number 1 rule of gambling?

The number 1 rule of gambling is only to gamble what you can afford to lose. Set a clear budget and stick to it. Following this rule ensures that you gamble safely, leading to more success. Responsible gambling involves determining the amount of money you can afford to lose and not exceeding that limit. This rule ensures that gambling remains an enjoyable and controlled activity.

Do most gamblers quit right before they win?

At this point, the idea of gamblers quitting right before they hit a big win has become an inside joke in casino culture. In reality, no one can predict random outcomes. For some games, luck will be the only determining factor, while others may have a strategy component.

What is the unluckiest number in gambling?

The number 13 is traditionally regarded as unlucky or a bad omen in Western cultures. In terms of gambling, however, there are no unlucky numbers.

Is gambling really 50-50?

No. Besides the free odds bet in craps, which you’re only allowed to place after the initial roll, you won’t find any 50-50 odds in gambling. Casinos have to turn a profit, which means their games will have odds skewed in their favor. This built-in advantage is known as the house edge.

What is the most money ever bet in a casino?

In 1980, William Lee Bergstrom, known as The Suitcase Man or The Phantom Gambler, made gambling history at Binion's Horseshoe Casino in Las Vegas. Arriving with two suitcases, one filled with $777,000 in cash and the other empty, Bergstrom took advantage of the casino's policy to honor any size bet for a player's first wager. He placed the entire amount on the Don't Pass line in craps and won, making a $777,000 profit. Three years later, in 1984, he returned to the Horseshoe and continued his high-stakes gambling with both wins and losses, including a $1 million bet that he ultimately lost. Despite his initial success, the million-dollar loss proved devastating, leading to Bergstrom's tragic suicide in 1985.

What is the best gambler's win percentage?

The best win percentage arguably belongs to Billy Walters, with a 58% win rate in sports betting across several decades.

What does 3 to 1 mean in gambling?

In gambling, odds are often expressed in ratios. "3 to 1" means that the potential profit is three times the amount wagered. This means that if you bet $100 with 3 to 1 odds, you can win $300.

Why do most gamblers lose?

Most gamblers lose due to the inherent casino advantage or house edge.

What does the average gambler lose?

The average gambler in the United States will lose about $633 a year at the casino.

How many gamblers go broke?

The Gambling Impact and Behavior Study reveals that 19.2% of individuals classified as pathological gamblers have undergone bankruptcy proceedings. The figures for low-risk and at-risk gamblers stand at 5.5% and 4.7%, respectively.

What nationality gambles the most?

Australians are the biggest gamblers out there, with over 80% of the adult population engaging in some form of gambling every year.

How often should I gamble?

When deciding how often to gamble, consider your financial situation, available time, and personal preferences. Strike a healthy balance between gambling and other daily activities. Always set a time limit and a budget when gambling, and adhere to them.

What gambling has the highest chance of winning?

You’ll most likely win when playing games with a low house edge. Opt for blackjack, video poker, European Roulette, and the most favorable bets in craps.

How to Understand Gamblers and Gambling Culture?

Is gambling a smart way to make money?

Many professional gamblers have made a career out of sports betting, poker, or blackjack. Whether gambling is a smart way to make money depends on your skills, dedication, bankroll, and game selection. Not all games are created equal when it comes to turning a profit. You will be hard-pressed to find any professional roulette or slot players.

Who is the best gambler of all time?

Crowning the best gambler of all time is easier said than done, considering how subjective it is. What should we value most? Is it titles, longevity, how much they earned, or something else? Enter Phil Ivey, renowned poker player boasting ten World Series of Poker bracelets and over $38m in winnings. Known for his strategic play and ability to read opponents, Phil Ivey has earned his stripes in the gambling world.

What are the three types of gamblers?

The three main types of gamblers are recreational, professional, and problem gamblers. Recreational gamblers mainly play for entertainment and socializing. Professional gamblers make a career out of gambling, chasing wins, and applying their skills and strategy. Their addictive behaviors and financial issues can identify problem gamblers.

How do casinos attract gamblers?

Casinos attract gamblers via promotions, welcome packages, and reward programs. Another way they entice customers is by offering free drinks and snacks.

How do you spot a gambler?

Spotting a gambler is only sometimes straightforward. Some telltales include frequent visits to casinos, fluctuating finances, and impulsive behaviors.

How do professional gamblers think?

Professional gamblers treat gambling as work. They are disciplined, meticulous, and often self-taught.

What do most professional gamblers play?

Most professional gamblers play poker, blackjack or engage in sports betting.

What religion is gambling a sin?

The moral perspective on gambling in Christianity sparks ongoing debates. Although the Bible doesn't directly mention gambling, certain passages, like Matt 6:24, Timothy 6:9-10, and Hebrews 13:5, have been interpreted by scholars to suggest disapproval. In Islam, the Quran explicitly prohibits maisir, which includes gambling. While Hinduism doesn't explicitly condemn gambling, many followers consider it a source of bad karma. Across different religions, views on gambling vary from indifference to disapproval or outright prohibition.

Do gamblers have high IQs?

This study suggests a positive correlation between skill-based gambling and high IQ. Another study indicates lower IQ participants are more susceptible to problem gambling. That being said, it's good to be cautious about correlation studies and to wait for more analyses to get a clearer picture.

How Do Gamblers Think and Feel?

How do professional gamblers think?

Professional gamblers have a disciplined mindset, strategic thinking, and a working understanding of mathematics, probabilities, and EV. They can recognize patterns and, depending on the game, are good at psychologically exploiting weaknesses in their opponents. They view gambling as a business instead of entertainment, which is reflected in how they play.

What goes on in a gambler's mind?

Professional gamblers have to constantly assess their expected value, take calculated risks, and pay attention to the flow of the game.

Do gamblers get angry?

The high-risk gambling environment can cause strong emotions in players, especially anger. The prospect of losing money can negatively affect a player’s psychology, sometimes leading to outbursts of rage and frustration.

Do gamblers feel guilty?

Problem gambling can cause intense feelings of guilt for players, either due to financial losses, strained relationships, or other neglected responsibilities. Guilty gambling is a sign of addiction.

What disorder do most gamblers have?

Problem gambling, also known as gambling addiction, is a psychological disorder characterized by compulsive and self-destructive gambling behavior. Luckily, there are many resources, helplines, and organizations aimed at supporting people who struggle with gambling.

Responsible gaming advisory

Please note that the strategies and recommendations offered in our blog articles do not guarantee success or winnings. Gambling is inherently risky and should be undertaken with player discretion. MrWest holds no responsibility for any losses incurred by players while using these strategies and tips.

At MrWest, we are dedicated to endorsing responsible gaming as an integral part of our customer care and ethos. We aim for you to enjoy your casino experience while being fully aware of the risks of problem gambling. If you or someone you know is struggling with addictive gambling behaviors, please reach out:

Gambling Therapy: https://www.gamblingtherapy.org/
Gamblers Anonymous: http://www.gamblersanonymous.org/
Responsible Gaming: http://www.responsiblegambling.org/

References

Card Counting Training - Counting Cards - Blackjack Apprenticeship. (2023, November 15). Blackjack Apprenticeship. https://www.blackjackapprenticeship.com/ ‌
Watts, P. (2018). Casino life: Psychology and culture of Casino Gambling. Australian Academic Press.
Grant, J. E., Liana, Odlaug, B. L., & Suck Won Kim. (2010). Pathologic gambling and bankruptcy. Comprehensive Psychiatry, 51(2), 115–120. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.comppsych.2009.04.002