maximize your chances: mega millions and powerball jackpot strategies

Winning the Mega Millions or Powerball jackpot is a dream for many, but the odds are notoriously stacked against you. However, with the right strategies, you can maximize your chances of hitting the big prize. Here are some tips to help you play smarter and increase your odds.Understanding the OddsBefore diving into strategies, it’s crucial to understand the odds of winning the Mega Millions and Powerball jackpots:Mega Millions: 1 in 302,575,350Powerball: 1 in 292,201,338While these odds are astronomical, there are ways to improve your chances.Key Strategies1.

  • Cash King Palace
    new
    Royal Wins100% / $1500
    Casino popularity:
    Collecting more data...
    Payment methods
    • Mifinity
    • Google Pay
    • PIX
    • EcoPayz
    • Neteller
    • Apple Pay
    • Visa
    • Sofort
    • Interac
    • Wagering: 35 x (b)
    • Withdrawal time: 1 days
    • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
    • Bonus max bet: $5
    • Established: 2024
    • Free Spins: 200
    • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Leading selection of slots
    • VISA casino site
    • HD streaming casino games
    • Newly unveiled casino
    • Signup offer now available
    • Mr. Gamble special bonuses
    Show more
  • Lucky Ace Palace
    Luck&Luxury100% / $1500
    Casino popularity:
    Collecting more data...
    Payment methods
    • Mifinity
    • Google Pay
    • PIX
    • EcoPayz
    • Neteller
    • Apple Pay
    • Visa
    • Sofort
    • Interac
    • Wagering: 35 x (b)
    • Withdrawal time: 1 days
    • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
    • Bonus max bet: $5
    • Established: 2024
    • Free Spins: 200
    • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Leading selection of slots
    • VISA casino site
    • HD streaming casino games
    • Newly unveiled casino
    • Signup offer now available
    • Mr. Gamble special bonuses
    Show more
  • Starlight Betting Lounge
    Celestial Bet100% / $1500
    Casino popularity:
    Collecting more data...
    Payment methods
    • Mifinity
    • Google Pay
    • PIX
    • EcoPayz
    • Neteller
    • Apple Pay
    • Visa
    • Sofort
    • Interac
    • Wagering: 35 x (b)
    • Withdrawal time: 1 days
    • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
    • Bonus max bet: $5
    • Established: 2024
    • Free Spins: 200
    • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Leading selection of slots
    • VISA casino site
    • HD streaming casino games
    • Newly unveiled casino
    • Signup offer now available
    • Mr. Gamble special bonuses
    Show more
  • Spin Palace Casino
    Win Big Now100% / $1500
    Casino popularity:
    Collecting more data...
    Payment methods
    • Mifinity
    • Google Pay
    • PIX
    • EcoPayz
    • Neteller
    • Apple Pay
    • Visa
    • Sofort
    • Interac
    • Wagering: 35 x (b)
    • Withdrawal time: 1 days
    • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
    • Bonus max bet: $5
    • Established: 2024
    • Free Spins: 200
    • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Leading selection of slots
    • VISA casino site
    • HD streaming casino games
    • Newly unveiled casino
    • Signup offer now available
    • Mr. Gamble special bonuses
    Show more
  • Silver Fox Slots
    Elegance+Fun100% / $1500
    Casino popularity:
    Collecting more data...
    Payment methods
    • Mifinity
    • Google Pay
    • PIX
    • EcoPayz
    • Neteller
    • Apple Pay
    • Visa
    • Sofort
    • Interac
    • Wagering: 35 x (b)
    • Withdrawal time: 1 days
    • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
    • Bonus max bet: $5
    • Established: 2024
    • Free Spins: 200
    • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Leading selection of slots
    • VISA casino site
    • HD streaming casino games
    • Newly unveiled casino
    • Signup offer now available
    • Mr. Gamble special bonuses
    Show more
  • Golden Spin Casino
    Luxury Play100% / $1500
    Casino popularity:
    Collecting more data...
    Payment methods
    • Mifinity
    • Google Pay
    • PIX
    • EcoPayz
    • Neteller
    • Apple Pay
    • Visa
    • Sofort
    • Interac
    • Wagering: 35 x (b)
    • Withdrawal time: 1 days
    • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
    • Bonus max bet: $5
    • Established: 2024
    • Free Spins: 200
    • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Leading selection of slots
    • VISA casino site
    • HD streaming casino games
    • Newly unveiled casino
    • Signup offer now available
    • Mr. Gamble special bonuses
    Show more
  • Royal Fortune Gaming
    Opulence & Thrills100% / $1500
    Casino popularity:
    Collecting more data...
    Payment methods
    • Mifinity
    • Google Pay
    • PIX
    • EcoPayz
    • Neteller
    • Apple Pay
    • Visa
    • Sofort
    • Interac
    • Wagering: 35 x (b)
    • Withdrawal time: 1 days
    • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
    • Bonus max bet: $5
    • Established: 2024
    • Free Spins: 200
    • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Leading selection of slots
    • VISA casino site
    • HD streaming casino games
    • Newly unveiled casino
    • Signup offer now available
    • Mr. Gamble special bonuses
    Show more
  • Lucky Ace Casino
    Luck&Luxury100% / $1500
    Casino popularity:
    Collecting more data...
    Payment methods
    • Mifinity
    • Google Pay
    • PIX
    • EcoPayz
    • Neteller
    • Apple Pay
    • Visa
    • Sofort
    • Interac
    • Wagering: 35 x (b)
    • Withdrawal time: 1 days
    • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
    • Bonus max bet: $5
    • Established: 2024
    • Free Spins: 200
    • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Leading selection of slots
    • VISA casino site
    • HD streaming casino games
    • Newly unveiled casino
    • Signup offer now available
    • Mr. Gamble special bonuses
    Show more
  • Diamond Crown Casino
    Opulence & Fun100% / $1500
    Casino popularity:
    Collecting more data...
    Payment methods
    • Mifinity
    • Google Pay
    • PIX
    • EcoPayz
    • Neteller
    • Apple Pay
    • Visa
    • Sofort
    • Interac
    • Wagering: 35 x (b)
    • Withdrawal time: 1 days
    • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
    • Bonus max bet: $5
    • Established: 2024
    • Free Spins: 200
    • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Leading selection of slots
    • VISA casino site
    • HD streaming casino games
    • Newly unveiled casino
    • Signup offer now available
    • Mr. Gamble special bonuses
    Show more
  • Victory Slots Resort
    Spin to Win100% / $1500
    Casino popularity:
    Collecting more data...
    Payment methods
    • Mifinity
    • Google Pay
    • PIX
    • EcoPayz
    • Neteller
    • Apple Pay
    • Visa
    • Sofort
    • Interac
    • Wagering: 35 x (b)
    • Withdrawal time: 1 days
    • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
    • Bonus max bet: $5
    • Established: 2024
    • Free Spins: 200
    • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Leading selection of slots
    • VISA casino site
    • HD streaming casino games
    • Newly unveiled casino
    • Signup offer now available
    • Mr. Gamble special bonuses
    Show more

Source

  1. maximize your chances: mega millions and powerball jackpot strategies
  2. maximize your chances: mega millions and powerball jackpot strategies
  3. maximize your chances: mega millions and powerball jackpot strategies
  4. maximize your chances: mega millions and powerball jackpot strategies
  5. maximize your chances: mega millions and powerball jackpot strategies
  6. maximize your chances: mega millions and powerball jackpot strategies

maximize your chances: mega millions and powerball jackpot strategies

Winning the Mega Millions or Powerball jackpot is a dream for many, but the odds are notoriously stacked against you. However, with the right strategies, you can maximize your chances of hitting the big prize. Here are some tips to help you play smarter and increase your odds.

Understanding the Odds

Before diving into strategies, it’s crucial to understand the odds of winning the Mega Millions and Powerball jackpots:

  • Mega Millions: 1 in 302,575,350
  • Powerball: 1 in 292,201,338

While these odds are astronomical, there are ways to improve your chances.

Key Strategies

1. Play Consistently

Consistency is key. The more tickets you buy, the higher your chances of winning. Consider playing every draw to keep your numbers in the mix.

2. Use Random Number Generators

Many players choose their numbers based on birthdays or significant dates, which limits the range of numbers they select. Using a random number generator can help you cover a broader range of numbers, increasing your odds.

3. Join a Lottery Pool

Joining a lottery pool allows you to pool your money with others, enabling you to buy more tickets. While the jackpot would be shared, your chances of winning increase significantly.

4. Avoid Common Patterns

Many players choose numbers in common patterns, such as consecutive numbers or those in the same group (e.g., multiples of 5). Avoiding these patterns can reduce the likelihood of sharing the jackpot with others.

5. Consider the Odds of Multiple Wins

While the odds of winning the jackpot are low, the odds of winning smaller prizes are higher. Focus on strategies that increase your chances of winning multiple smaller prizes, which can add up over time.

6. Stay Informed About Draws

Keep track of the number of consecutive draws without a jackpot winner. When the jackpot rolls over multiple times, the prize increases, and more people buy tickets. This can reduce your chances of winning the jackpot outright but can also increase the odds of winning smaller prizes.

7. Use Statistical Analysis

Some players use statistical analysis to identify numbers that are drawn more frequently. While there is no guarantee that these numbers will continue to be drawn, it can be a strategy worth considering.

Practical Tips

1. Budget Wisely

Set a budget for how much you are willing to spend on lottery tickets. Never spend more than you can afford to lose.

2. Stay Patient

Winning the jackpot requires patience. Keep playing consistently, and don’t get discouraged by losses.

3. Know the Rules

Familiarize yourself with the rules of Mega Millions and Powerball. Understanding the game mechanics can help you make more informed decisions.

4. Stay Updated

Keep up with any changes to the lottery rules or formats. Changes can impact your strategy and the odds of winning.

While winning the Mega Millions or Powerball jackpot remains a long shot, using these strategies can help you maximize your chances. Remember to play responsibly and enjoy the thrill of the game. Good luck!

maximize your chances: powerball and mega millions jackpot strategies

Winning the Powerball or Mega Millions jackpot is a dream for many, but the odds are stacked against you. However, with the right strategies, you can maximize your chances of hitting the big prize. Here are some tips to help you play smarter and increase your odds.

Understanding the Games

Before diving into strategies, it’s essential to understand how Powerball and Mega Millions work:

  • Powerball: Draws occur twice a week, on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Players choose five numbers from 1 to 69 and one Powerball number from 1 to 26.
  • Mega Millions: Draws are held on Tuesdays and Fridays. Players select five numbers from 1 to 70 and one Mega Ball number from 1 to 25.

Key Strategies

1. Use Random Number Generators

  • Why: Random number generators (RNGs) can help you avoid common pitfalls like picking numbers based on birthdays, which limits your range.
  • How: Many lottery websites offer RNG tools that can generate a set of numbers for you. This can help diversify your choices and increase your odds.

2. Join a Lottery Pool

  • Why: Pooling resources with others allows you to buy more tickets, thereby increasing your chances of winning.
  • How: Form a group with friends, family, or colleagues. Each member contributes a set amount, and you collectively purchase tickets. Ensure clear agreements on how winnings will be distributed.

3. Play Consistently

  • Why: Playing consistently increases your chances of hitting the jackpot, even if the odds are low.
  • How: Set a budget for lottery tickets and stick to it. Play the same set of numbers regularly or use RNGs to generate new sets each time.

4. Analyze Past Drawings

  • Why: Some players believe that certain numbers are “hot” or “due” to be drawn.
  • How: Look at past winning numbers and identify patterns. While this strategy is not scientifically proven, it can be a fun way to choose your numbers.

5. Consider the Odds

  • Why: Understanding the odds can help you make informed decisions about how much to spend and when to play.
  • How: Powerball and Mega Millions have different odds of winning the jackpot. Powerball has slightly better odds, but Mega Millions often has larger jackpots. Balance your strategy based on these factors.

6. Stay Informed About Changes

  • Why: Lottery rules and formats can change, affecting your strategy.
  • How: Regularly check lottery websites and news sources for updates. For example, changes in the number ranges or the addition of new balls can impact your odds.

Practical Tips

1. Set a Budget

  • Why: Avoid overspending by setting a budget for lottery tickets.
  • How: Decide how much you can afford to spend each week or month and stick to it.

2. Keep Your Tickets Safe

  • Why: Losing your ticket means losing your chance to claim any winnings.
  • How: Store your tickets in a safe place and check them regularly against the winning numbers.

3. Understand the Rules

  • Why: Knowing the rules ensures you don’t miss out on potential winnings.
  • How: Familiarize yourself with the rules for claiming prizes, including deadlines and required documentation.

While no strategy can guarantee a jackpot win, these tips can help you play smarter and maximize your chances. Remember, the lottery is a game of chance, so enjoy the experience and keep your expectations realistic. Good luck!

mega millions & powerball winning numbers: your guide to winning big

Introduction

Mega Millions and Powerball are two of the most popular lottery games in the United States, offering life-changing jackpots that attract millions of players. Winning these games requires not only luck but also an understanding of how the numbers are drawn and how to maximize your chances of winning. This guide will provide you with essential information on Mega Millions and Powerball winning numbers, helping you navigate the path to potentially winning big.

Understanding Mega Millions Winning Numbers

How Mega Millions Works

  • Ticket Purchase: Players select five numbers from 1 to 70 and one Mega Ball number from 1 to 25.
  • Drawing Process: Five white balls are drawn from a set of 70, and one gold Mega Ball is drawn from a set of 25.
  • Prize Tiers: Prizes are awarded based on how many numbers match the drawn numbers. The jackpot is won by matching all six numbers.

Strategies for Selecting Mega Millions Numbers

  • Random Selection: Many players opt for random number generators or quick picks.
  • Personal Numbers: Some players choose significant dates or numbers that have personal meaning.
  • Pattern Analysis: A few players use statistical analysis to identify patterns in past draws.

Understanding Powerball Winning Numbers

How Powerball Works

  • Ticket Purchase: Players select five numbers from 1 to 69 and one Powerball number from 1 to 26.
  • Drawing Process: Five white balls are drawn from a set of 69, and one red Powerball is drawn from a set of 26.
  • Prize Tiers: Similar to Mega Millions, prizes are awarded based on the number of matches. The jackpot is won by matching all six numbers.

Strategies for Selecting Powerball Numbers

  • Random Selection: Similar to Mega Millions, many players use quick picks.
  • Personal Numbers: Players often choose numbers that are meaningful to them.
  • Pattern Analysis: Some players analyze past draws to identify trends.

Maximizing Your Chances of Winning

Understanding Odds

  • Mega Millions Odds: The odds of winning the Mega Millions jackpot are approximately 1 in 302.6 million.
  • Powerball Odds: The odds of winning the Powerball jackpot are approximately 1 in 292.2 million.

Tips for Increasing Your Chances

  • Multiple Tickets: Buying more tickets increases your chances, but the odds remain low.
  • Syndicates: Joining a lottery syndicate allows you to pool resources and buy more tickets.
  • Stay Informed: Keep track of past winning numbers and trends to make informed choices.

Claiming Your Prize

Mega Millions Prize Claiming

  • Small Prizes: Can be claimed at authorized retailers or state lottery offices.
  • Large Prizes: Must be claimed at the state lottery office. Winners have the option to take a lump sum or annuity payments.

Powerball Prize Claiming

  • Small Prizes: Similar to Mega Millions, can be claimed at retailers or state lottery offices.
  • Large Prizes: Must be claimed at the state lottery office. Winners can choose between a lump sum and annuity payments.

While winning the Mega Millions or Powerball jackpot is largely a matter of luck, understanding the mechanics of the games and employing smart strategies can enhance your experience and potentially increase your chances of winning. Stay informed, play responsibly, and who knows—you might just hit the jackpot!

mega millions & powerball draw days: your guide to winning big

Introduction

The Mega Millions and Powerball lotteries are two of the most popular and lucrative games in the United States. With massive jackpots that can reach into the billions, these lotteries attract millions of players who dream of winning big. Understanding the draw days for these lotteries is crucial for anyone looking to participate and increase their chances of hitting the jackpot.

Mega Millions Draw Days

Overview

Mega Millions is drawn twice a week, providing ample opportunities for players to try their luck.

Draw Schedule

  • Tuesday: The first draw of the week.
  • Friday: The second draw of the week.

Key Points

  • Cut-off Time: Ticket sales for each draw close at 10:45 PM Eastern Time on the day of the draw.
  • Jackpot: The jackpot starts at $20 million and can grow significantly with rollovers.
  • Odds of Winning: The odds of winning the Mega Millions jackpot are approximately 1 in 302.6 million.

Powerball Draw Days

Overview

Powerball, like Mega Millions, offers two weekly draws, ensuring that players have multiple chances to win.

Draw Schedule

  • Wednesday: The first draw of the week.
  • Saturday: The second draw of the week.

Key Points

  • Cut-off Time: Ticket sales for each draw close at 10:00 PM Eastern Time on the day of the draw.
  • Jackpot: The jackpot begins at $20 million and can grow to astronomical amounts.
  • Odds of Winning: The odds of winning the Powerball jackpot are approximately 1 in 292.2 million.

Strategies for Winning

Timing Your Purchase

  • Avoid Peak Times: Purchase tickets during off-peak hours to avoid long lines and ensure you get your tickets before the cut-off time.
  • Early Purchase: Consider buying tickets early in the week to avoid last-minute rushes.

Choosing Numbers

  • Random Selection: Use the random number generator provided by the lottery to ensure a fair selection.
  • Avoid Common Patterns: Steer clear of common number patterns that many players use, as this could lead to shared jackpots.
  • Stick to a Strategy: Some players prefer to use birthdays, anniversaries, or other significant dates, while others opt for completely random numbers.

Staying Informed

  • Check Results: Regularly check the results of the draws to see if you’ve won.
  • Subscribe to Alerts: Many lottery websites offer alerts for draw results and jackpot updates.

Understanding the draw days for Mega Millions and Powerball is the first step in your journey to winning big. By staying informed, choosing your numbers wisely, and timing your ticket purchases strategically, you can maximize your chances of hitting the jackpot. Good luck!

Frequently Questions

How can I maximize my chances of winning the Powerball or Mega Millions jackpot?

To maximize your chances of winning the Powerball or Mega Millions jackpot, first, purchase multiple tickets to increase your odds. Second, consider joining a lottery pool to share costs and numbers. Third, use a random number generator to avoid common patterns. Fourth, play consistently, as each draw is independent. Lastly, stay informed about jackpot sizes and play when they are higher to attract more players and potentially increase your winnings. Remember, while these strategies can slightly improve your odds, the lottery remains a game of chance, and winning is ultimately unpredictable.

How can I win big with Mega Millions and Powerball numbers?

Winning big with Mega Millions and Powerball numbers requires a combination of luck and strategic ticket selection. While the odds are low, some strategies can slightly improve your chances. Consider using a mix of hot numbers (frequently drawn) and cold numbers (rarely drawn). Additionally, avoid common patterns like consecutive numbers or all odd/even numbers. Many winners use significant dates, but this limits the number range. For a balanced approach, use a random number generator or quick pick option. Remember, each ticket has an equal chance, so consistency in playing can increase your exposure to potential wins. Stay informed about jackpot sizes and play when the prize is substantial to maximize your potential payout.

 

What strategies should I use to maximize my chances in tonight's Mega Millions jackpot?

To maximize your chances in tonight's Mega Millions jackpot, consider these strategies: 1) Buy multiple tickets to increase your odds. 2) Use a random number generator to avoid common patterns. 3) Join a lottery pool to share costs and numbers. 4) Choose a mix of high and low numbers. 5) Avoid quick-pick options for more control. 6) Stay consistent with your numbers. 7) Check past winning numbers for trends. 8) Play regularly to keep your chances active. While no strategy guarantees a win, these tips can enhance your approach and potentially improve your odds.

What strategies should I use to maximize my chances of winning tonight's Mega Millions jackpot?

To maximize your chances of winning tonight's Mega Millions jackpot, consider these strategies: First, buy multiple tickets to increase your odds. Second, use a random number generator to avoid common patterns. Third, join a lottery pool to share costs and numbers. Fourth, research past winning numbers for trends. Fifth, stay consistent with your numbers. Sixth, manage your expectations and play responsibly. Lastly, ensure you meet all eligibility requirements and deadlines. While no strategy guarantees a win, these steps can enhance your approach and potentially improve your odds.

What strategies should I use to maximize my chances in tonight's Mega Millions jackpot?

To maximize your chances in tonight's Mega Millions jackpot, consider these strategies: 1) Buy multiple tickets to increase your odds. 2) Use a random number generator to avoid common patterns. 3) Join a lottery pool to share costs and numbers. 4) Choose a mix of high and low numbers. 5) Avoid quick-pick options for more control. 6) Stay consistent with your numbers. 7) Check past winning numbers for trends. 8) Play regularly to keep your chances active. While no strategy guarantees a win, these tips can enhance your approach and potentially improve your odds.