The one thing that every gambler needs is tools to make it
easier to win. The old proverb goes : there is the right tool
for every job, and gambling is no different. No one would try to
replace a water heater of fix their car without having some idea
what they are doing. Gambling is no different. Players should do
research not only on where to play, but also on who to bet on and
where to bet it.
Studying the games is one of the best ways to get a leg up. Do
not bet on teams that you know nothing about. Do not make wager
types that you do not really understand. And above all, do not
bet to "get out" or "get even".
Players can start doing research by reading on upcoming games.
Handicapping articles that give not only angles and opinions,
but facts, are invaluable. Generally these are written by
handicappers and people in the industry. Some handicappers are
excellent with certain conferences or specific sports and
can offer great insight. Unfortunately, many of the handicappers
that are the most visible, are also the ones who seem to pick
games on hunches or antiquated methodology.
In fact,
we get asked about handicappers all of the time. the
BEST handicappers only win 60+ percent of the time. Sure,
anybody can get hot and go 80% for two weeks, but a
handicapper that does 61 or 62 percent has had a very
good year. One way to see how different 'cappers do is
to check out their Free Picks.
Generally speaking, free picks are not as 'strong'
as pick that you pay for, but a handicapper that hits
half of his freebies, probably will win more than he
loses in games he is charging for. Still, players should
evaluate the cost of the plays vs. how much is wagered.
Paying $50 for a pick that is going to have $100 wagered
on it is not financially sound.
We urge players to open multiple accounts. The most
overlooked thing amongst regular players is looking
for the best line. Players are often too content to
take the line given, when another outlet may have a
half point, or less juice for the same wager.
Shopping the line is a very important concept that
will always yield results. Players should always be
aware of getting the best number.
Checking the line at various
sportsbooks is always a good idea. Places like
Don
Best and
Vegas Insider post lines from multiple
sportsbooks simultaneously. Checking the number at
outlets like
Pinnacle Sports or
5Dimes can give some insight as both of these
outlets have an opinion. Players who like underdogs
should look for outlets that weigh a little heavier
on the favorite, places like
Bovada and
BetUS.
Players also need to understand if what they are
wagering on is a good bet. We have and
odds calculator to help with playing parlays.
There are a huge variety of bets in addition to
parlays. Teasers, pleasures, reverses and other bets
are really no better for the player than straight
wagers. Are they fun, yes. But are they profitable .
. . not so much.
Money management is a valuable tool for any gambler.
Having a set dollar amount to bet, that works within
a players bankroll cannot be understated. Making
haphazard wagers, chasing or playing 'hunches'
almost never pays off.
Betting at an online can be fun and profitable. However, we also want to reinforce the old axiom "Bet with your Head, Not Over it". Players
should not use any money or make charges that are needed for the rent, car payment or next meal. Online gambling should be looked at as entertainment.
Players can find secure and legal betting on the Internet
via computer, cell phone or PDA 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at top online casinos with just the click of a mouse.