[dropcap]Y[/dropcap]ou won’t find many people arguing against how much fun betting is, even if they don’t bet themselves. And they’re right not to; betting gives a thrill and excitement that could be provided by nothing else. That is of course in case you win. It’s all fun and games until someone starts losing money, repeatedly. Unfortunately, this is how it is with betting; you win some and you lose some. The ultimate goal is to win as much as possible, naturally, but that doesn’t always come as easy as it sounds. This is why it’s important to understand betting odds, and it’s very important to know how they work. Going in blind without having a clue what the numbers indicate means you’ll more likely to lose money than not.
Yet, understanding what odds mean and how to choose the best odds are two completely different ball games. When it comes to sports betting, it’s almost a science. You can check out odds offered by 20 different bookies –– and even understand them all –– but knowing how to choose the best odds and best bookie too is a bit tricky. There are some tips you need to be well aware of before you go ahead and stake that hard-earned money of yours.
Choose a sport you know
Even if the odds seem very exciting and all seems well, it’s rather kind of moot to bet on a sport you know nothing about. You can’t go bet on a Federer versus Nadal match without knowing their head to head history and who has advantage on what court. For instance, Federer has a winning score on grass while Nadal has one on clay. Knowing these factors and variables is essential before you go stake your money. Doesn’t make much sense to go bet on a match like that if you’ve never even watched a tennis match your entire life, does it?
Make the effort
Say you decided on a sport you know well and all is ready for the bet. Don’t just go right ahead and deal with the first bookie you come across. They’re not all the same, and some are more credible and offer much better odds than the others. The only way you’ll ever know which is which is by taking the time and researching different bookies offering all sorts of odds. You can use sites like the one on this link which offers the best betting offers in 2018 and even a comparison between all the different ones. They give you all the tools you need to filter your betting options based on several criteria like bonuses and much more.
Go with the underdog
This might not seem logical at first, but the more you think about it the more it’ll make sense. You’ll probably find the best odds offered for the underdogs in sports events. Naturally, the odds for the underdog winning are much better than those of the favorite. In this case, put a small bet on the underdog, and if you win, you’ll get more money than if you bet on the favorites. Yes, the underdog doesn’t win quite as often, but that is why it’s important to look for good odds and an underdog that could actually win. Don’t go bet on the last place in the Premier League to win against Manchester City. But Arsenal versus Manchester City? Yeah, that’s not entirely impossible. It’s important to keep it grounded and realistic.
Look for events with closely-matched competitors
If and when both competitors are close in level, that means the odds will be likely good. It’s because no side is much more likely to win than the other, so the bookies won’t be able to work the odds in their favor as much to get their edge. And you want unadjusted odds; they mean yours are better than those that have been corrected.
Look for a serious bookie
You’ll want to find a bookie that doesn’t change the odds every hour or two. That would make it extremely difficult to actually place a bet. Professional bookies will stick to the odds they’ve announced, unless some major changes happen or an unexpected twist occurs.
Reputation
Try to always look for a bookie that has a good reputation with different punters. Honesty and professionalism is something you’ll want in the guy you’re staking your money with.
Promotions, bonuses, and boosters
Many bookies offer promotions or bonuses every now and then, especially online, which significantly enhances your odds. You should always keep a lookout for deals like those who might be just the nudge you need to go ahead and stake your money. They even offer odds boosters for specific events and competitions which also gives you an extra edge.
Opt for events with a possible tie outcome
These usually have some very good odds. Sporting events where a tie is probable, like soccer, for instance, usually entail fairly good odds for the punter. If you also decide to bet on smaller, less noticeable competitions, your odds would be even better. This is because for those less known competitions, the bookies don’t always do the extra effort in researching their odds like they would in a Champions League match, for example.
Look for a bookie with a mobile app
Time is of the essence when it comes to placing a good bet. So, you should find yourself a bookie that has a mobile application which would let you place your bets with ease at any time or place.
Different payment methods
You’ll also want a bookie that offers various payment methods. You wouldn’t want to miss out on some good odds just because you don’t have cash and would prefer to use credit card, while your bookie only accepts cash. Having that variety of payment options is one of the most important points you need to be concerned about while looking for a bookie.
These are some tips and hacks for how to choose your odds and bookie, but the most important tip of all is use sound judgement. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. So, take your time to weigh the odds and choose what best suits you.
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