nordo wrote: Bob Dancer's column was one of the best. Please don't apologize for using math. It is important for video poker players to know how to figure theses things out for themselves. I use pencil and paper. Using your software is like cheating on a test. Try bringing a computer into an SAT test
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Thanx for the kind words. I disagree about pencil and paper being the only way to go. That is simply beyond the abilities/interests of many players. Even math nerds can often do things faster and more accurately on a computer than by hand.
If you're at a casino and you must figure out a particular promotion NOW, then yes, you have to use whatever math skills you brought with you. Many promotions are such that you can figure them out at home before you go to a casino. When at home, use whatever tools you have --- including software, calculator, websites, notes, call a buddy, etc.
Another way to say it is analyzing a promotion is an open-book test --- at least when done away from the casino. Use whatever tools you have available to you. And the more tools you have and are fluent in their use, the faster and more accurately you'll be able to evaluate that promotion.
If Nordo wants to do everything by hand, good for him. But even though I'm capable of doing that, I much prefer using electronic tools. And even in this column, after I worked out the number of wild royals and straight flushes by hand, I cross checked my answers on a computer. Personally I have good days and bad. The computer is basically always correct.
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