Mathematical Strategies to Help Improve the Chances of Winning at Rock-Paper-Scissors

Numberphile (previously) host Hannah Fry takes a look at a number of mathematical strategies aimed at increasing one’s probability of winning a round of rock-paper-scissors. While the game is intended to be determined by random chance, certain strategies can increase one’s odds when playing against a human opponent.

People who win tend to repeat their strategy. For example, if I beat you playing rock, there is a very high probability that I will play rock again, a second time. If it worked once, it’s going to work again, right?