Sports Betting 101 – 5 Things to Remember Before Making Your First Bet
Sports betting is becoming a bigger part of the game, especially in the United States where it became legal in 2018. Many fans enjoy placing wagers on their favorite teams and players. Whether you’re a casual bettor or an expert, there are a few things to remember before making your first bet.
1. Read the house rules.
The house rules are a set of restrictions and requirements that govern sports betting at a particular location or online. They can differ from one sportsbook to the next, so it’s important to know them well. If you have any questions about a rule or restriction, be sure to ask the staff at your sportsbook.
2. Learn how to read odds.
Sports betting odds are a key component of any bet. They indicate the probability of an event occurring and are used by sportsbooks to make money. The higher the number, the more likely the event is to happen. If a team wins by more than the number they’re favored by, they’ve “covered” the spread and made a profit. If a team loses by less than the number they’re favored by, it’s considered a push and no one has won.
3. Learn the difference between over/under bets and point spreads.
The over/under bet is a type of spread that focuses on the total amount of points, goals, or runs scored in a game. It’s a great way to predict the outcome of a game without worrying about which team will win or lose. For example, if a game is a defensive slugfest with both sides scoring more than 42 combined points, you can place a bet on the over.
4. Do not bet bad numbers.
A common mistake of novice bettors is to place bets based on emotion or their favorite team. This can be dangerous and lead to poor decisions. If you’re rooting for the Cowboys but the sportsbook you’re at has them at -7, resist the urge to bet them. Instead, shop around for a better number.
5. Understand that winning isn’t easy.
It’s hard to be a winner in sports betting, and there’s no such thing as a sure bet. Even bets with high odds of winning won’t always come through, and it’s important to have a plan of action before you place your bet. This plan should include a budget for each bet and how you’ll react to losses.
Ultimately, sports betting should be fun. While some bettors use it as a way to supplement their income, others treat it like an investment and seek to earn a consistent return month over month. No matter how you choose to play, it’s important to be smart and stay within your budget. You can also try using a reputable online sportsbook with a reputable bookmaker to avoid scams and other issues. You can also sign up for a rewards program to earn cash back on your bets.