How to Read Lottery Scratch Off Cards

You can turn $3 into $1,000 with the right scratcher.

Everyone knows that the chances of winning a mega millions lottery or any similar multimillion-dollar lottery jackpot are astronomical. However, you have a much better chance of winning some quick cash from the scratch-off lottery cards known as scratchers. These are cheap, quick and easy to find. By simply following the directions and playing by the rules laid out on the card, you have the chance to earn some free money!

Things You'll Need

• Coin or key

Instructions

1. Select your card based on the game you would like to play. Look over the selection of cards available at your local gas station or grocery store. While games will vary, most will have a common format -- matching numbers. You may have one where you have to match three like prizes and win that prize. Another popular card game involves scratching off a "lucky" number then scratching off the spaces and trying to find the same number. If you match numbers then you win the prize listed below it. Another is tic tac toe, which involves trying to match three numbers in a tic tac toe game and winning a prize coordinated with the number you matched.

2. Read the specific directions on your card. By doing this, you will know what to hope for before you start scratching. Make sure you understand what you need to do in order to win. For example, find out what numbers on the card have to match in order for you to win a prize.

3. Scratch the appropriately marked places on the card. For example, scratch the "lucky" number, then scratch off the other spaces to see if you have a number matching it. If you won, check your prize amount and return the card to the cashier at the gas station or grocery store.

References

• 24 Scratch: Lottery Scratch Cards
• Wired: Cracking the Scratch Lottery Code