why doesn't a rating go up when you draw with a much rated player (140 higher)?

question as to what happens if you draw a player who let us say is rated 140 points higher?  does your rating go up at least a little ?

Yes. You have only played 5 games, so you may have some big swings in your rating. The more you play, the more accurate it will be. For example, I'm around 1620. If I play a 1700 guy to a draw, I will get 1 or 2 points.

Although, I must admit I hate draws!

thanks for the info.  I like draws where I am in a weaker position and manage to hold out.

Yep. If you are down, in a seemingly lost position, it's the smart play if you can get your opponent into perpetual checks. I recently had an opponent write in the chat that he was sorry, but, due to the situation, he was now going for the draw-and it was obvious he would get it.

It used to make me angry, but, it was my own fault for putting myself in that spot.

If you play enogh games here, draws are inevitable.

Is it possible that you are playing unrated?

 Excellent point. Thalamacus, when accepting games, this is just one of the things to look at, like vacation or not, pace of play, 960 game, etc.

When I started playing here, I just played chess, and got myself in a trick bag of tourneys that allow vacations ( I play fast), accepting games that were 7 day/move, and so on. I would suggest you navigate the site and learn the features. Then, use them to your advantage when choosing games.