Beneath the flashing lights and free cocktails, casinos stand on a bedrock of mathematics, engineered to slowly bleed their patrons of cash. Despite this fact, for years mathematically inclined minds have tried to use their knowledge of probability and game theory to turn the tables. Eventually, the results have been consistent: if you want to walk out of a casino with more money in your wallet than when you entered, it’s in your financial best interest not to gamble.

Unlike table games where players compete against one another, the vast majority of casino games have a statistical advantage for the house that is uniformly negative (from the player’s perspective). This advantage is known as the “house edge” or, in the case of skill-based games such as poker, “the expected value of the game.” In those cases where the house does not have an advantage, it earns its money via a commission called the rake.

In addition to the house edge, casinos rely on technology for security purposes and to monitor game outcomes. For example, chips with built-in microcircuitry allow casinos to monitor the exact amounts wagered minute-by-minute and alert them of any anomaly; roulette wheels are electronically monitored regularly to discover statistical deviations quickly.

Gambling is a mentally taxing activity and it’s important to take breaks from the games. Continuing to play when you’re tired can lead to poor decisions that can be costly. It’s also a good idea to set a spending limit before you go into the casino and stick to it.