Sports Betting in Simple Terms

Sports betting is simply predicting the outcome of sporting events and placing money on your predictions. If you're correct, you win money based on the odds. If you're wrong, you lose the amount you bet. It's become a popular form of entertainment that adds excitement to watching sports.

Why Are More Women Getting Into Sports Betting?

Sports betting has traditionally been male-dominated, but that's changing rapidly. More women are discovering that sports betting can be an enjoyable way to engage with sports they already love watching.

Women often bring different strengths to sports betting:

  • Research-focused approach: Women tend to research teams, players, and statistics before betting
  • Better risk management: Studies show women are more likely to set limits and stick to them
  • Strategic thinking: Women often prefer calculated bets over impulsive wagering
  • Community engagement: Women enjoy discussing strategies and learning from other bettors

With the rise of women's sports like the WNBA, women's soccer, and tennis, there are more opportunities than ever to bet on sports you're passionate about.

Basic Types of Sports Bets Explained

There are several types of bets you can place. Here are the most common ones, explained in simple terms:

Moneyline Bets (Easiest to Understand)

Simply pick which team or player will win. No point spreads or complicated rules - just pick the winner.

Moneyline Example

WNBA Game: Las Vegas Aces vs. New York Liberty

You bet on the Aces to win. If they win by any amount, you win your bet. If they lose, you lose your bet.

Point Spread Bets

The favored team must win by more than a certain number of points, or the underdog must lose by fewer than that number (or win outright).

Point Spread Example

NFL Game: Cowboys -7 vs. Giants +7

If you bet on the Cowboys, they must win by 8 or more points. If you bet on the Giants, they can lose by 6 or fewer points (or win) and you still win.

Over/Under (Totals)

Bet on whether the combined score of both teams will be over or under a set number.

Over/Under Example

Tennis Match: Over/Under 21.5 total games

If the match has 22 or more games total, "Over" wins. If it has 21 or fewer, "Under" wins.

Prop Bets

Bets on specific events within a game, like how many points a particular player will score.

Prop Bet Example

WNBA Player Prop: Caitlin Clark to score over 25.5 points

If she scores 26 or more, you win. If she scores 25 or fewer, you lose.

Understanding Odds (Made Simple)

Odds tell you two things: how likely something is to happen and how much money you can win. In the US, we typically use American odds.

How American Odds Work

Favorite
-150
Bet $150 to win $100
Slight Favorite
-110
Bet $110 to win $100
Even
+100
Bet $100 to win $100
Underdog
+200
Bet $100 to win $200

Easy Way to Remember

Negative numbers (-) = favorites = you bet more to win less

Positive numbers (+) = underdogs = you bet less to win more

The bigger the negative number, the bigger the favorite. The bigger the positive number, the bigger the underdog.

How to Get Started: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you're ready to try sports betting, here's how to start safely and smartly:

1

Learn the Basics

Understand different bet types and how odds work. Use our calculators to practice without risking money.

2

Set Your Budget

Decide how much you can afford to lose (your bankroll). Never bet money you need for bills or expenses.

3

Choose Your Sportsbook

Pick a legal, regulated sportsbook in your state. Look for good customer service and user reviews.

4

Start Small

Begin with small bets on sports you know well. Focus on simple moneyline bets at first.

5

Track Your Bets

Keep records of your wins and losses. This helps you learn what works and stay within your budget.

6

Learn and Adapt

Study your results, learn from mistakes, and gradually try more advanced betting strategies.

Practice With Our Free Calculators

Before you start betting real money, use our calculators to understand how different bets work and what you could win or lose.

Try Parlay Calculator All Calculators

Responsible Betting: Keeping It Fun and Safe

Sports betting should enhance your enjoyment of sports, not cause stress or financial problems. Here's how to keep it healthy:

Set Clear Limits

  • Budget limit: Never bet more than you can afford to lose
  • Time limit: Don't spend hours every day researching or placing bets
  • Loss limit: If you lose a set amount, take a break
  • Win limit: Sometimes it's smart to walk away when you're ahead

Warning Signs to Watch For

If betting is no longer fun, it's time to take a break. Warning signs include:

Betting money you need for other things | Lying about your betting to family or friends | Feeling anxious or depressed about betting outcomes | Spending more time thinking about bets than enjoying games | Chasing losses by betting bigger amounts

Get Help if You Need It

Resources Available

National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700

Online resources: ncpgambling.org

Crisis text line: Text HOME to 741741

Frequently Asked Questions

Is sports betting legal?
Sports betting is legal in many US states, but laws vary by location. Check your state's specific laws and only use licensed, regulated sportsbooks.
How much money should I start with?
Start small - maybe $50-100 that you can afford to lose completely. Never use money you need for bills, food, or other essentials.
What sports are best for beginners?
Start with sports you already follow and understand. If you're a WNBA fan, begin there. If you love tennis, start with tennis betting.
Can I really make money sports betting?
While some people do profit from sports betting, most don't. Treat it as entertainment, not as a way to make money. The house edge means sportsbooks have a long-term advantage.
Do I need special software or tools?
No, but calculators can help you understand potential payouts before placing bets. Our free calculators are designed to help you make informed decisions.

Ready to Learn More?

Explore our other guides to deepen your sports betting knowledge.

WNBA/NBA Betting Betting Fundamentals