How to Play Lottery: A Simple Guide

Use this guide to find a game’s official rules and understand a ticket before you check its result.

1. Choose a game and read its rules

Find the official operator’s game page. Review the number pools, ticket price, drawing schedule, prize tiers and participation requirements.

2. Choose your numbers

Some games let you select your own numbers or use a random pick. Our number generator provides random selections for information; a generated selection is not a purchased ticket.

3. Check the ticket and draw date

If you purchase a ticket from an authorised source, check its game, selected numbers and drawing date. Follow the issuing lottery’s ticket handling instructions.

4. Compare the result

Open the game’s results page after the draw. Compare the main numbers and any special ball with the result for the same drawing date.

5. Follow the official claim process

For a winning ticket, contact the issuing lottery and follow its claim requirements and deadlines. Our claim guide helps you find the next steps.

Game guides

Official rules: Powerball · Mega Millions.