More often than not, I use discount codes (although, they're not much of a discount anymore). If not, it's a combination of TDF (when the dates are conducive to my availability), rush/lotto (when I've got the time), TKTS, or I just buy the cheap seats. I'm slowly learning that it's okay to see a show and not sit in the orchestra.
I can't even remember the last time I saw a show and I paid the full price for a prime orch/front mezz seat. In fact, I don't think I ever have.
A little swash, a bit of buckle - you'll love it more than bread.
I do a lot of student rush. Sure...I graduated college a year and a half ago, but my student ID doesn't say I did. I've never done the lottery, but I have done TKTS several times and have never paid more than $50 for a really good seat. But if it's a show that I just HAVE to see then I'll just pay full price.
"Somethin's comin', I don't know what it is but it is gonna be great!"