Competitions are a game of chance once you’ve entered — but a few simple habits genuinely improve your odds and stop you wasting entries. Here’s an honest guide to giving yourself the best shot.
1. Understand the odds before you enter
Your chance of winning depends on how many tickets are in the draw and how many you hold. A competition with a capped ticket limit tells you the maximum number of entries up front, so you can see your real odds — unlike an open-ended draw. Look for that cap.
2. Pick better-value draws
Compare the prize value against the ticket price and the ticket limit. A low-cost ticket in a smaller-field draw can offer better value than a pricey ticket in a huge one. Value, not just price, is what to weigh.
3. Always answer the skill question correctly
Every entry — paid or free — only qualifies if you get the skill question right. A wrong answer means that entry doesn’t go into the draw, so it’s wasted. Take the few seconds to answer carefully.
4. Look for instant-win tickets
Instant-win competitions give you two chances from one ticket: an immediate prize and a place in the headline draw. That’s more ways to win for the same entry.
5. Buy more tickets — sensibly
More tickets means more entries and a proportionally better chance. But set a budget and stick to it. The goal is to enjoy the competitions responsibly, not to chase a win. Never spend more than you’re happy to.
6. Don’t forget the free route
Every competition has a free postal entry with the same chance of winning. It costs only a stamp and still qualifies for the draw.
Ready to put the tips to use? See the live competitions. 18+, UK only. Please play responsibly.