1. Thou shalt expect to lose.
The Las Vegas Strip was not built by winners. Even with good rules and strategies the odds are still usually in the casino's favor. So don't get mad if you lose. Think of it as the price you pay for entertainment.
2. Thou shalt trust the odds, not hunches.
If you want to maximize your odds then believe in mathematically proven strategies, not hunches. If hunches are so great why are there so many psychics working the Boardwalk in Atlantic City as opposed to playing?
3. Thou shalt not over-bet thy bankroll.
Before you gamble determine what you can safely afford to gamble with as entertainment money. Stick to your limits and don't gamble with money you need for necessities.
4. Thou shalt not believe in betting systems.
For every one legitimate gambling writer there are a hundred charlatans trying to sell worthless betting systems promising an easy way to beat the casinos. I know sounds like a cliché but if it sounds too good to be true it probably is.
5. Thou shalt not hedge thy bets.
Hedge bets invariable carry a high house edge. For example never take insurance in blackjack and never bet the any craps or any seven in craps.
6. Thou shalt covet good rules.
Rules vary from casino to casino. To improve your odds know good rules from bad and then seek out the best rules possible.
7. Thou shalt not make side bets.
Side bets are sucker bets. Period.
8. Thou shalt have good gambling etiquette.
Gambling is a lot more fun when people are polite and respect each other.
9. Thou shalt honor thy gambling debts.
A true gentleman (and lady) honors their debts, especially gambling debts. When making a bet with another person you are putting your honor on the line to pay if you lose. No excuses!
10. Thou shalt tip.
Dealers generally only make minimum wage and count on tips to make a decent living. Although the amount to tip is subject to much debate the reason for tipping should be based on good service, not how much you win or lose.
