James’ Thought Spot

This puzzle was stole… er… I mean…. paraphrased from the Car Talk puzzle archives. I think that’s all for a bit from them cause I already have a puzzle lined up for the next two weeks. I’ll give the answers this time cause it isn’t practical for a password answer.

Three different numbers are chosen at random, and one is written on each of three slips of paper. The slips are then placed face down on the table. The objective is to choose the slip upon which is written the largest number.

Here are the rules: You can turn over any slip of paper and look at the amount written on it. If for any reason you think this is the largest, you’re done; you keep it. Otherwise you discard it and turn over a second slip. Again, if you think this is the one with the biggest number, you keep that one and the game is over. If you don’t, you discard that one too.

I know of a strategy that will, instead of a 1 /3 chance, give a 1/2 chance of chosing the right card and it’s the only strategy that does this. What is it?

Post your answer in the comments. Have fun!