Reference / Game theory

Mixed strategy

Concept, intermediate

Also called Randomising.

Choosing between options with set probabilities, so the other side cannot predict and exploit you.

In rock-paper-scissors, the unexploitable strategy is each throw a third of the time. Against a predictable opponent you can do better, but only by becoming predictable yourself.

Try it yourself

In rock-paper-scissors, you often follow rock with paper. You have just thrown rock. What does a watchful opponent throw next?

3 questions, a minute or two. Nothing to finish first.

Want more? Practise Be unpredictable.

Play it out: the Rock-paper-scissors lab, about five minutes against bots.

Learn and practise it

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