How To Win at Rock, Paper, Scissors

Rock, paper, scissors is a simple game of chance. Playing can take away boredom. Some people play as a way to make a decision, similar to flipping a coin. If you want to win at rock, paper, scissors, you can increase your odds. Just follow these tips and you will have an advantage.

1. Watch your opponent. Most people have a preference (usually scissors or rock) that they play most often. If you can watch them play someone else, great. If not, take notice when you play each other. What does your partner prefer? You may not have an advantage the first time you play, but you will for later games. Still, remember that in general men prefer rock while women prefer scissors.
2. Make your first move. If playing an experienced player, start with scissors (since most experienced players know that rock is a favorite opener). If playing an inexperienced player, start with paper, again because rock is most often the first choice.
3. Avoid having a preference yourself. Remember that while you are watching your opponent, he is watching you. If you can, decide on a strategy before you play and stick to it. That way you will avoid showing a preference. So if you know you will be playing best of three hands or best of five, decide before you start that you will play – paper, rock, scissor – or some other combination. Then play that choice regardless of what your opponent plays each turn.
4. Play the double. As part of your routine, play the same hand twice in a row. For example, select scissors twice. This will confuse the opponent who will think you have little experience. For your move after the double, toss in something to confuse them. So if you chose scissors twice, follow it with rock. The opponent will expect you to select paper in order to avoid being predictable.
5. Watch for the double. Experienced players are aware of the double, so plan accordingly. Some will try to fake you out by going that way themselves. Inexperienced players may use the double without thinking about it and will then have to change for the next move so that they do not appear predictable.
6. Have fun. Games of chance are never foolproof. You will not win every game you play. So try to have some fun while playing.

Playing rock, paper, scissors can be a fun way to relieve some boredom or make a decision such as where to go to dinner or whose turn it is to drive for the night out. Regardless of why you play, try some of these tips and you will be able to win often.