How to win at Rocks, Paper, Scissors

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Driving to lunch, being the wing-man on Friday nights…

There are tons of occasions when you try to encourage others to do something you don't want to. Although it's a game, I have seen 50-year old men playing RPS (rocks, paper, scissors) in the hallways at work about who has to tell the boss about a missed deadline.

If you are going to play, learn to win. In perhaps our most elementary post ever, we're going to point you to Mental Floss Magazine so you can learn how to outsmart your opponent.

1 – Rock is for Rookies
In RPS circles a common mantra is “Rock is for Rookies” because males have a tendency to lead with Rock on their opening throw. It has a lot to do with idea that Rock is perceived as “strong” and forceful”, so guys tend to fall back on it. Use this knowledge to take an easy first win by playing Paper. This tactic is best done in pedestrian matches against someone who doesn’t play that much and generally won’t work in tournament play.

2 – Scissors on First
The second step in the ‘Rock is for Rookies’ line of thinking is to play scissors as your opening move against a more experienced player. Since you know they won’t come out with rock (since it is too obvious), scissors is your obvious safe move to win against paper or stalemate to itself.

How to Win at Rock-Paper-Scissors at Mental Floss Magazine
If you are really into this, see the Ultimate RPS Chart.

Photo: Brex