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Playing until you’re out of money is not the way it’s supposed to go. Yet that is what too many casino players end up doing all the time. Here’s my formula for making sure that gambling online or in a "real" casino need never again be a regretful experience.

Everyone likes casino games, whether it’s in one of the big Vegas resorts, or just online from the comfort of their home. Blackjack, roulette, or something more skilled like the game of poker – the choices are nearly endless these days. Make sure you invest some time learning how the game works, know the rules, and know how to maximize your winnings.

Casino gambling is fun, but the lure of the big win can become hazardous to your financial health! The casino’s edge can often be overcome in short-term play. The longer a gambler plays, the more likely the house will win. That's a fact.

The main reason the great majority of players don’t win is their own greed. One casino executive told me: "Our players win all the time, but when they do, they want to win more and more, so they keep playing until their bankroll is all gone."

So what does it take to be a winner? Stop being greedy! Before you put your money at risk, think about why you want to do this and what you would like to achieve. Do you want to play for a certain number of hours, or do you want to win a specific dollar amount? Or a combination of both?

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Be sure to set reasonable goals. Supposing you’re willing to risk a $200 bankroll. It would be foolish to hope to turn $200 into $10,000, but you might have a realistic chance to turn $200 into $400. If doubling your stake is your goal, you should quit as soon as this is achieved.

On the other hand, if you plan to make your $200 last for three hours, look for a low-limit ($1 or $2) table game, or stick to 25-cent machines if slots or video poker is your choice. Stop at the end of the pre-set time period, regardless of whether you’re ahead or behind.

Set your perimeters before you start and don’t let greed take over. That way you have an excellent shot at achieving your goal, and you assure that you will not lose more than what you were willing to risk in the first place. Have the discipline to do this and you will have a much more satisfying gambling experience. Using common sense and being in control at all times are mighty weapons against any casino.

Equally important is knowing all about the games you play. Don’t risk your money before you know how to play the game of your choice properly. (For rules and strategies for the six most popular casino games, click on the links at the top of the column to the left.)

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