Big, shiny welcome offers are designed to make you click fast. The smart move is to slow down for two minutes and run the numbers. A bonus that looks generous can be a drain once you factor in wagering rules, game contributions, and max-bet caps. Here’s a simple, practical way to know whether a deal is worth your time before you deposit.

The two-minute method for sizing up a bonus

1. Find the real wagering base. Does the wagering requirement (WR) apply to the bonus only, or to bonus + deposit? That single detail changes the math dramatically.
2. Check game contribution. Slots often count 100%; many table games count 10% or are excluded. If your preferred game contributes 10%, multiply the displayed WR by 10 in practice.
3. Note the max bet and expiry. A $3–$5 max bet and short expiry can make clearing on time difficult, especially with a modest bankroll.
4. Estimate expected cost. Use a quick mental model: Expected cost ≈ Total wagering × House edge × Contribution factor. For mainstream slots, assume 4% house edge (96% RTP). It’s conservative enough for quick screening.
5. Compare cost to bonus value. If expected cost exceeds the headline bonus, skip. If it’s clearly lower, proceed with a plan.

Quick examples

Example A: 100% match to $200, 35x bonus WR, slots 100%. Total wagering = $200 × 35 = $7,000. Expected cost ≈ $7,000 × 4% = $280. Bonus value is $200, so net ≈ −$80. Verdict: skip.

Example B: 100% match to $200, 20x bonus WR, slots 100%. Total wagering = $4,000. Expected cost ≈ $4,000 × 4% = $160. Net ≈ +$40 before variance. Verdict: borderline worth it if you like low‑volatility slots and strict bet sizing.

Example C: 100% to $200, 25x bonus + deposit WR (i.e., $400 base). Total wagering = $10,000. Expected cost ≈ $10,000 × 4% = $400. Net ≈ −$200. Verdict: skip unless stacked with meaningful extras like cashback or free spins with low WR.

For a clean, transparent example of how terms should be laid out, see casino B7. Notice how the bonus page spells out contribution rates, max bet per spin, expiry, and any withdrawal caps in one place; that clarity lets you run the math in minutes.

Common traps (and how to sidestep them)

• Contribution mix‑ups: If table games contribute 10%, that 35x suddenly acts like 350x for those games. Either switch to eligible slots or accept the much larger wagering volume.
• Max bet violations: Placing a $10 spin when the cap is $5 can void the promo. Lock your staking plan before you start; many games remember your last bet size.
• High volatility during heavy WR: Sky‑high variance can doom your bankroll before you clear. Use 96%+ low‑variance slots until 80% of WR is done; switch later if you want upside.
• Short expiry: Three days to clear $7,000 at $3 per spin is a slog. Confirm you can realistically do the spin volume within your available time.
• Withdrawal caps: Some promos cap winnings from bonus funds (e.g., $500). If your aim is a big score, these caps blunt the edge.

What “good” looks like

Walkthrough: from claim to cashout

Set an intent: clear it or skip it. Deposit only if the math makes sense and you can commit the time. Keep these moves tight:

1. Pick two low‑variance, 96%+ slots; alternate if one is streaky.
2. Stake at 0.5–1.0% of your total bonus bankroll per spin, but never breach the promo’s max bet.
3. Track remaining WR using a simple note: started at $7,000, cleared $2,100 today, $4,900 left.
4. Only ramp volatility after 80–90% of WR is done, and only if rules allow.
5. At completion, stop. Don’t reinvest into a new promo until you cool off and review results.

See it in action

Prefer a quick visual refresher? This short walkthrough shows the math and pacing described above.

One‑minute checklist

• What exactly is the WR base?
• Which games and percentages count?
• Max bet and expiry?
• Expected cost vs bonus value?
• Bankroll, time, and staking plan ready?

Bottom line

Bonuses are not free money; they are a trade: time and expected loss for upside. When the terms are clear and the math works, take the shot with discipline. When the numbers tilt against you—or the rules are fuzzy—skip the promo and keep your bankroll for better spots.