Unless you’re struck by lightning, die in a plane crash or get eaten by a shark, your chances of winning the jackpot lottery are slim. But if you’re serious about hitting the jackpot, there are ways to boost your odds. One strategy is to mix up your number choices. Instead of selecting numbers that follow a certain pattern, randomize your selections to increase your odds. You can also look for a combination that falls between 104 and 176, which is where 70% of lottery winners hit the jackpot.

A second strategy is to use a lottery software that analyzes historical data and patterns to create intelligent number combinations with a higher probability of success. There are several software options available, including Lottery Maximizer from Richard Lustig. Its algorithms take into account both the frequency of individual numbers and how they interact with each other. However, many experts caution that software is not a substitute for careful research and planning.

Another way to improve your odds is to play less popular games. They tend to have better odds and can add up to a substantial sum of money over time. Plus, you’ll have a much better chance of being the sole winner, which can make for a much bigger thrill and paycheck.

You can even try your luck with local state lotteries if you don’t want to wait for the next Powerball or Mega Millions jackpot to grow. Many of these apps offer a special wager type called “Just the Jackpot” that allows you to play for only the top prize. It’s usually less than half of the total jackpot amount and you can often choose between a lump sum or annuity payout.