Many gamblers, especially beginners, consider themselves “naturals” – as in people with a natural knack for winning. Gambling may not be the same as acing a degree in engineering but learning how to gamble well and make a profit does require at least some knowledge and perfecting of a skill.

It’s important to realise that improving your chances of winning – no matter the game or type of casino – requires a bit of sweat on the brow. No valuable skill ever comes without any effort first being invested into perfecting that skill, or at least developing it to some extent. Gambling is no different.

Knowledge is Power

Our first key strategy for successful gambling: knowledge. And then some.

Humanity can be a truly interesting social study in how to go about things in the wrong way. Gambling, sadly, is one of the “things” people often go about in all the wrong ways. It’s important to know everything there is to know about your casino game of choice. Nobody expects you to be a perfect Blackjack player or a master at pokies – but in the very least, learn the rules and a few basic strategies before throwing your hard-earned money at game with no more than careless abandon.

Use Your Head–And Your Computer

Most people who have a bit of money to spare for entertainment such as a meal enjoyed at a restaurant or a few hours spent having fun at a casino, also own, or least have access to a computer. And since practice makes perfect, practising a game using a computerised simulation of that game, is just about the best way to go about getting a feel for the rules and finer nuances of the game.

Try to Keep Up

Be aware of the rules of the game you hope win at. Even though the basic rules of most casino games will probably never change, be aware of small changes that may apply at some casinos and not necessarily at others.

Blackjack is a good example of why it’s important to stay abreast of developments related to rule-changes.

You may have noticed that some casinos will allow you to double-up on a 10 or 11, while others allow a doubling of bets on any initial two cards dealt. In order to reach a certain level of proficiency, especially when learning the rules, it’s also necessary to familiarise yourself with the different rules applying at different casinos.

It’s True: Bankroll Matters

Let’s be frank about it: it’s no good pitching up with a couple of dollars hoping to make a fortune out of an evening at the casino. Be realistic about the size of your bankroll vs. what you hope to achieve.

Have a Game Plan, Man!

Have a game plan – a plan of attack. Don’t simply put your behind down on any vacant chair simply because it’s vacant with no regard to the game you’re about to play. Be sure to sass out for yourself those games offering a smidgen better odds than the rest. Failing to plan is equal to planning to fail.