How to Choose Lottery Numbers: Myths and Reality
Quick answer: There is no method to choose numbers with a higher chance of winning: every draw is independent and all combinations have the same probability. The only thing you can influence is how many people you might share the prize with: birthday dates (numbers 1 to 31) are very popular, so if you win with them you are more likely to split the jackpot.
Updated 25 September 2026 · By the Serviloto team, Lottery Office no. 40 in Málaga (Spain).
Odds of winning the top prize by game:
| Game | Odds of the first prize |
|---|---|
| Lotería Nacional / Christmas Lottery (per number) | 1 in 100,000 |
| La Primitiva (6 matches) | 1 in 13,983,816 |
| Bonoloto (6 matches) | 1 in 13,983,816 |
| El Gordo de la Primitiva (5 + key number) | 1 in 31,625,100 |
| EuroMillions (5 + 2 stars) | 1 in 139,838,160 |
Choosing lottery numbers is a personal choice, but many myths surround this decision.
Myth 1: Overdue numbers are more likely to appear
Every draw is independent, so all numbers have the same chance of being selected.
Myth 2: Recently drawn numbers won't appear again
A number can appear in consecutive draws. Previous results do not affect future ones.
Myth 3: Birthdays are the best choice
Birthday numbers are popular, but they offer no statistical advantage.
Automatic or manual selection?
Randomly generated numbers have exactly the same probability of winning as manually selected ones.
Conclusion
There is no perfect strategy for choosing lottery numbers. Every valid combination has the same mathematical chance of winning, so the best approach is simply to play responsibly and enjoy the experience.
Frequently asked questions
Are some lottery numbers drawn more often?
In the long run, all numbers come up with a similar frequency. A number having been drawn more often in the past does not increase its chances in the next draw.
Are overdue numbers more likely to come up?
No. Each draw is independent, so a number that has not appeared for a long time has the same probability as any other.
Is a quick pick better than choosing my own numbers?
Statistically they are the same. A random combination has the same odds as a hand-picked one, although it tends to be shared by fewer players.
Is it a bad idea to play birthday dates?
It does not lower your odds, but since many people play numbers from 1 to 31, if you win you are more likely to share the prize with other winners.
Is there any trick to win the lottery?
No. No method, statistic or software can predict a draw. You can only increase your chances by playing more combinations, which also increases what you spend.
