Betting on sports is a fun way to spice up your viewing experience and it can also be a rewarding experience. However, it is important to be smart about your betting and not put more money at risk than you can afford.

The best way to get started with sports betting is to choose a licensed sportsbook and start wagering on the games you like. It is also important to understand your state’s laws about sports betting before you begin.

Line shopping

Before placing a bet, make sure to shop the lines at other sportsbooks. This will help you find the odds that are most likely to return a good profit.

Unit sizing

For long-term success in sports betting, it is essential to bet on the same amount of games each week and use consistent unit sizes. Typically, this means 1-5 percent of your starting bankroll on every bet.

American Odds

The most popular type of odds in the United States are American odds, which display a minus sign next to a team’s betting odds and a plus sign for an underdog. These odds indicate the amount you need to bet to win $100 and also show the extra you will earn for a winning bet.

Fractional odds are another format used in sports betting. They are displayed with a minus sign next to the underdog’s odds and a plus sign for a favorite. The odds will widen as the probability of a favorite winning increases.