While some bettors are lucky enough to win a few bets, few manage to make a profit. To break even, most bettors need to win 52.4 percent of the time. This number varies by sport and market, but even the best bettors are unlikely to win more than that. As with any other game, you can’t predict results perfectly, but you can learn to look for key statistics to make your bets.
Pro sports bettors keep near-obsessive records of their bets. Keeping a proper record is critical to testing your theories. For example, a baseball professional may study MLB statistics and notice that the home team is more likely to start a left-handed pitcher after a loss, which means that it has an advantage in the game. These records can also help you protect your bankroll.
Fading the public is another important strategy. Fading the public means betting against the majority of the betting public, which is usually the favorite. When betting on an over/under, bettors should avoid tilting, which leads to chasing. And if you’re a beginner, it’s important to practice these strategies often, since they can help you make informed bets in the future.
