Bankroll Management For Gamblers
Don't Chase Losses: Accepting a loss is part of the game. Never use money meant for bills, rent, or other essentials. Tips for Responsible Gaming
Set a Budget: casino Only gamble with money you can stand to lose. Many casinos and regulatory bodies offer tools to help players. Gamble with a Clear Mind: Avoid playing when you are depressed or under the influence of alcohol. Here are some common responsible gambling features. Set Time Limits: Decide beforehand how long you will play and stick to it. Know the Rules: Understand the games you are playing and the odds involved. Trying to win back lost money often leads to bigger losses.
Observing these social norms will help you fit in and avoid any awkward situations with dealers or other players. Don't Be That Guy
Walking into a casino for the first time can be overwhelming. Beyond the official rules of the games, there's a code of conduct, or etiquette, that ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.
A Hall of Fame of Winners
The Excalibur Jackpot: In 2003, a 25-year-old software engineer from Los Angeles visited the Excalibur Hotel & casino (linked web site) in Las Vegas. He played blackjack and won $27,000, which was enough to cover the company's $24,000 fuel bill and keep it afloat. The FedEx Founder: Frederick W. His victory is credited with starting the "poker boom."
Here’s a look at some of the largest recorded slot machine jackpots. The World Series of Poker Champion: In 2003, an amateur poker player named Chris Moneymaker turned a $86 online satellite tournament entry into a $2.5 million win at the World Series of Poker Main Event. He put $100 into a Megabucks slot machine and walked away with an astonishing $39.7 million, the largest slot jackpot in history. Smith, the founder of FedEx, famously saved his company in its early days by taking its last $5,000 to Las Vegas.
Prize
Casino
Date
Game
$39.7 Million
Excalibur, Las Vegas
2003
Megabucks
$34.9 Million
Desert Inn, Las Vegas
2000
Megabucks
$27.5 Million
Palace Station, casino Las Vegas
1998
Megabucks
$21.3 Million
Caesars Palace, Las Vegas
1999
Megabucks
These stories are inspiring, but it's important to remember they are extremely rare exceptions to the rule. Always gamble responsibly.
Your Well-being Matters
Gambling should always be a form of fun, not a way to make money. It's vital to stay in control and know when to stop. Responsible gambling means treating it as a recreational activity with a budget. Losing control can lead to harmful consequences.
Activity
Main Guideline
Blackjack
Use hand signals to indicate Hit or Stand. Act in turn and don't "splash the pot" (throw your chips into the middle). Keep your hands out of the way when the shooter is rolling the dice. Craps
Don't say the word "seven" at the table. Never touch your cards in a game where they are dealt face-up. Poker
Don't talk about a hand you're not in. Roulette
Wait for the dealer to remove the dolly (marker) from the winning number before placing new bets or collecting winnings.
Smart Money Rules
Separate Your Funds: Keep your gambling money distinct from your everyday living expenses. Stop playing when you hit either one. Set Win/Loss Limits: Decide on a target profit (win limit) and a maximum loss (loss limit) for each session. This prevents catastrophic losses. Record Your Play: Keep track of your wins and losses to understand your performance. Use a Staking Plan: Bet a small, consistent percentage of your total bankroll on each wager (e.g., 1-2%).
The extra pocket nearly doubles the house edge to 5.26%. Wheel Variations
European Roulette: Features numbers 1-36 and a single zero (0). American Roulette: casino Features numbers 1-36, a single zero (0), and a double zero (00). For this reason, knowledgeable players always prefer European or French Roulette when available. Let's look at the probabilities and payouts for common bets on a European wheel. French Roulette: Similar to European Roulette, but includes rules like "La Partage" or "En Prison" that can reduce the house edge on even-money bets to as low as 1.35%. The house edge is 2.7%.
Watch for a bit first or play online for free to practice. Be Respectful to the Dealer: Dealers are professionals doing their job. When making a bet, place your chips neatly in the designated area. Limit Phone Use at the Table: Most casinos frown upon using your phone while at a table game. It slows down the game and can be a security concern. Rules for casino the Floor
Know the Rules Before You Play: Don't sit down at a table without understanding the basics of the game. Decisions are yours alone. Don't Ask for Advice: Do not ask the dealer or other players how you should play your hand. Be polite, and if you're winning, a small tip is always appreciated. Handle Your Chips Correctly: Don't touch another player's chips.