I admit it. When I first heard there are actual tournaments for Rock-paper-scissors, sanctioned by the World Rock Paper Scissors Society, I laughed. I mean seriously, $50k to the winner of a game that requires no skill whatsoever? Absurd. Boy was I wrong.

Rock-paper-scissors isn’t just a silly game kids play or a way to decide who has to be the designated driver at parties. This is serious stuff. It’s psychological warfare. ChaCha Answers explains.

Males have a tendency to throw rock on their first try, inexperienced RPS players will subconsciously deliver the item that won previously, and paper is thrown least often, so use it as a surprise. And remember, when in doubt, throw the Spock. Your opponent will never know what hit him. You’ll be disqualified, but at least you’ll go out fighting.