Bingo is a popular game of chance in which a player marks off numbers on a card as they are drawn at random by the host. The game is won when the player achieves a certain arrangement and calls “Bingo!”.
Part of the fun and frustration of a game of bingo is that there is no way to ensure success when playing. There are no mathematical equations to be worked out or strict set of rules to be followed. It is all about luck. However, there are some simple strategies you can use to improve your odds of winning the next time you go to the bingo hall or play a game online.
Calculating the odds
Before we introduce you to the simple and clever strategies you must first know how to calculate bingo odds of winning during the game. Again, there is no complicated equation, it is very straightforward. Simply divide the total number of cards in the game by the number of cards you are playing. If there are 100 cards in the game and you buy and play 4, there is a 4 in 100 (or 1 in 25) chance you will win.
Play more cards
Based on the above explanation of how to calculate bingo odds, it is obvious that the best way to improve your chances of winning is to buy and play more cards. In the above example, you buy 4 cards, providing a 4 in 100 chance of winning. Therefore, you can double your chances of winning if you purchase 8 cards.
It is worth remembering that you won’t be the only player utilising this approach, many others will be using it too. When it comes to playing, beginners usually buy one to three cards. But you will find more advanced and serious players tend to buy up to ten cards per game in order to improve their chances.
Play more games
It goes without saying that the more games you play the greater the chance you have of winning. Therefore, play more to win more, it really is that simple.
Play at off-peak times
Another simple way to improve the odds of winning is by playing off-peak or by entering quieter bingo rooms. Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends. Late night is usually less popular than the evenings.
This strategy works equally well in person at your local bingo hall as online. But online it is easier to see how many bingo cards are in play, letting you know if it is worth a shot. If there are less cards in play and you have purchased a few then the probability of success if greater.
Bear in mind, that less players usually mean a smaller overall prize. Therefore, implementing this approach to you game mean you are more likely to win little and often than a large jackpot. Of course bingo cannot hit huge prize like in lotteries, but you have a better chance to win a bingo game than the chance to hit the lottery prize.
Arrive early
In life the early bird catches the worm. The same can be said about bingo, especially when playing in person. Arrive early, before the bingo hall opens to ensure you get the best seat in the house. Which seat is the best? Well, closest to the caller, of course. The game is won by the person who calls “Bingo!” first. Therefore, if you are sitting in close proximity to the caller, you will be among the first to see the numbers being drawn, perhaps before the number is even called. Even though it rarely happens, it could be you and another player eagerly awaiting one number to complete a full house. Placing yourself near the numbers and caller will give you the best chance to win.
Organization is key
You may have once thought that this was a fun, light-hearted game, and of course, it can be. However, serious and successful players know how important it is to organize your cards. Up to a certain point, the game can be easy to follow. But if you have several cards in play then it is best to lay them out on the table so they are clearly visible.
This will save you time shuffling through cards when the numbers are called. Instead, you will be able to quickly scan. It may seem unimportant but a game can move quickly. You don’t want to be in a fluster checking numbers all the while the next number is being called. This will shave seconds off your game, which could make all the difference in terms of increasing the odds in your favour.
At the end the real secret of every gamer, no matter the age, it is to have the right tools and small techniques that can guide the gamer.
Use a bingo dauber
Every player will have their own preferences but when it comes to marking the numbers on your cards a brightly coloured bingo dauber is the best option. It will be more visible than using a pencil. Again, it is a simple tactic but every little thing will help your game.
Practice makes perfect
You may be looking for a quick fix when it comes to improving your skills. But it takes time and practice to get into the swing of the game. Bingo halls are busy places, with lots of ongoing movement and distractions. This is why online bingo games are a great opportunity to hone your skills and develop as a player. You will become accustomed to the pace of the game; your reaction time will improve and you will learn be concentrate better. All of these will help to improve your odds of winning over time.
Final word
In conclusion, you will see that there are many things you can do to improve your odds of winning. But you will also that there are no secret tips and tricks.
When it comes to bingo and more specifically winning, essentially, there is no real hidden secret. Rather small environmental tweaks you can make to your approach to the game in order to improve your chances of success. As well as improving your reactions and concentration to ensure complete focus on the game at hand.
It is a hugely entertaining game so don’t forget to have some fun while you try your luck for a win.