The flashing lights and ringing bells of a casino are designed to distract you, but behind the scenes, a massive accounting system tracks your every move.

Understanding exactly how the casino calculates the value of your comps is the secret to getting the absolute most out of your casino visit.

Why You Must Always Use a Player's Card

Every time you insert the card into a slot machine, the central computer meticulously tracks exactly how much money you cycle through the machine.

If the casino cannot track your action via this card, you simply do not exist in their system, and you will receive absolutely zero comps.

• Signing up for a card usually takes five minutes at the rewards desk
• Casinos often give new sign-ups free slot play just for registering
• Losing your card is fine; they will gladly print you a replacement instantly

How Casinos Calculate Your Worth

Theoretical Loss, commonly referred to as "Theo," is the exact mathematical amount the casino expects to win from you over time.

As a general industry standard, casinos will aggressively return approximately 20% to 30% of your total "Theo" back to you in the form of comps.

How to Maximize Your Comp Value

When you first sit down at a blackjack table, immediately place a much larger bet than you normally would to establish a high "average bet."

Furthermore, taking frequent bathroom breaks or talking on your phone slows down your hands per hour while the pit boss still clocks you as "playing."

Always use your card, be incredibly polite to the pit boss, and never be afraid to ask directly for a free meal.