Roulette has offered glamour, mystery and excitement to casino-goers since the 17th Century. While the game may appear to be simple and straightforward, it actually offers a surprising depth of strategy for serious betters. Using the right strategies, players can increase their odds of winning and maximize their profits.

The name “Roulette” comes from French for little wheel, and it is indeed a little wheel with 37 or 38 numbered pockets. The American Roulette wheel contains a single zero while the European version has two, one marked simply as “0,” and the other labelled as “00.”

A Roulette table includes a map of the numbers, similar to the ones arranged on the roulette wheel. Each player places his or her bets on the table according to their preferences. The croupier then spins the wheel and rolls a small ball into one of the numbered slots, where it will stop.

Before placing your bets, decide how much you are willing to bet on each round of play. Setting a budget will help you avoid over-betting and overspending. You should also determine the maximum amount you are willing to lose in a given session. Then, choose a table that fits your budget and stick to it.

Each roulette table carries a placard with a description of the minimum and maximum bets allowed. These limits are usually set by the casino and will vary from one location to another. Some casinos will have different minimum and maximum bets for inside and outside bets, as well as a different payout for each type of bet.

Inside bets involve betting on a specific number or group of numbers, and have a higher chance of winning but a lower payout than outside bets. There are several types of inside bets, including a Split Bet (two consecutive numbers), Street Bet (three consecutive numbers in a row) and Corner Bet (four consecutive numbers that meet at the edge of the table).

Outside bets, on the other hand, have a lower chance of winning but pay out at a 1:1 rate. There are also several types of outside bets, including the Dozens and Columns bets, which cover groups of 12 numbers.

Some people attempt to improve their chances of winning by watching other players or by predicting the outcomes of previous rounds. However, these tactics won’t improve your odds more than purely coincidental luck. The best way to win is to stick with a strategy that suits your preferences and budget, and don’t get carried away by grandiose claims of guaranteed success.