Sports betting is an exciting form of gambling that allows bettors to win money based on their predictions of the outcome of a sporting event. Whether you’re an experienced bettor or a beginner, there are several tips that can help you make the most of your sports betting experience.

Do your homework. Before placing your bet, do some research on the different sportsbooks and their odds. Read independent/nonpartisan reviews and make sure to look at the sportsbook’s track record, including how they treat their customers and expedite payouts.

Set aside a bankroll. Open a separate account specifically for your wagering, and determine how much you’re willing to lose on any given play (I recommend anywhere from 1-2% of your total bankroll). Keep this number consistent and stick with it. Don’t go on a losing streak and chase your losses with irrational bets in an attempt to make up for the losses; this is what we call going “on tilt.” Instead, take the hit and move on.

Find your niche. Every bettor has their own strengths and weaknesses. Maybe you played college hockey and have a knack for the NHL, or perhaps your dad was a high school coach and you have a great feel for small conference college football. Find your niche and focus on it.

Learn about the teams and players you’re putting your money on. Do your homework and study up on the players’ tendencies, coaching styles, injuries, and any other pertinent information that could affect a game’s outcome. Separate your fandom from your wagering; it’s easier said than done, but you should always be clear-headed when placing a bet.

Bet on the Over/Under. This is a bet on whether both sides of a game will combine for more or less points than the total line posted by the sportsbook. For example, a baseball game might have a total of 42.5 points, and you can bet on either the Over or the Under. These bets are usually calculated based on statistics, such as how many strikeouts a team will have or how many home runs will be scored.

In-game NBA betting can be a gold mine, thanks to the wild swings of pro hoops games. A 25-point deficit in the first quarter can be erased by a 20-point victory in the final period, which makes for some crazy bets and huge payouts for sportsbooks. The key to winning in-game NBA bets is to find the right matchups. Ideally, you’re looking for a team that is well-coached and has a solid plan for dealing with the opponent’s strengths while exploiting their weaknesses.