Can you increase your chances of winning the Lotto in the UK? (Image: Getty)
Winning the lottery is a ‘plan B’ for millions of Britons, but due to its random nature, it can seem like there are few ways to gain an advantage. Some players may choose numbers that frequently appear, but new statistics reveal which numbers have been absent for a while and might be due.
the National Lottery’s draws since October 2015 and identified the six most overdue lottery numbers. The research showed that 37, 52, 39, 58, 27, and 42 are among the most commonly drawn numbers, with number 37 being the most frequent, having been selected 115 times.
However, it was last drawn 74 days ago on Saturday, 7th September. The study revealed the six most overdue numbers:
The six most overdue numbers that were discovered during the study include:
Number 46: Last drawn 140 days ago on July 3, 2024, making it the longest missing numbers.
Number 24: This number hasn’t appeared in 137 days, with its last draw on July 6, 2024.
Number 40: It’s been 102 days since this number was drawn, last appearing on August 10, 2024
Number 34: Last drawn 88 days ago on August 24, 2024, placing it among the recently overdue numbers.
Number 52: Missing for 81 days, this number last appeared on August 31, 2024.
Number 15: It has been 77 days since its last draw, which occurred on September 4, 2024.
Lottomart added: “Keep in mind, though, that past appearances of a number have no effect on when it might show up again. Each lottery draw is entirely independent, with randomised machines and sets of balls ensuring that no past result can influence future outcomes. However, if you’re thinking about mixing up your number choices, this list might offer some inspiration.”
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How to help your odds
Lucky numbers do not help: While you may believe that your lucky numbers are unique to you, the reality is that they’re likely shared with thousands of other lottery players. Furthermore, these so-called lucky numbers or birth dates usually only cover a small range of possibilities, effectively reducing your chances of securing a solo win. Advice: Avoid selecting birthday numbers, common sequences (1,2,3,4,5,6), or “lucky numbers.”
There is a secret to choosing numbers: Statistical data collected in 2020 Opt for double digits above 31, as these won’t be included in birthday tickets. Interestingly, there’s a method to picking numbers: According to statistical data gathered in 2020 on Powerball winning numbers, two numbers had a higher hit frequency: 21, with a 43% greater chance, and 23, with a 58% greater chance. Tip: Consider including 23 and 21 on your ticket.
Repeatedly playing the same ticket in subsequent draws doesn’t increase your odds: Lottery draws are independent and random events, meaning they don’t influence each other. Many believe that if a combination appeared in last week’s draw, it won’t do so this week. However, this is just as likely as any other string of numbers.
Thankfully, even though playing the same ticket won’t boost your chances of winning, it won’t decrease them either. Tip: Regularly playing the same ticket will neither enhance nor diminish your chances of success.
Purchasing more tickets can increase your odds: If you play multiple ticket variations in the same draw, your chances of winning improve. For instance, if each ticket has a 1 in 100,000 probability, buying ten tickets with different combinations gives you a 10 in 100,000 likelihood or 1 in 10,000.
While this doesn’t significantly lower the odds, it does give you a better shot.
Keep a level head: Don’t get sucked into the world of lotteries and grand schemes for the next big draw. The slim odds of winning should serve as a reminder that this is just a hobby, not a surefire way to wealth. Most importantly, maintaining control is crucial when participating in any form of gambling.