Common Betting Mistakes to Avoid
The most frequent errors new punters make and practical advice on how to avoid them from day one.
New bettors often make the same mistakes. Avoiding these from the start will help you bet more sensibly and enjoy the experience.
Not setting a budget
Decide how much you can afford to lose before you bet. Never chase losses by increasing stakes. Stick to your budget whether you win or lose.
Misunderstanding the bet
Check exactly what you’re betting on — win only, each-way, or a special market. Confirm the odds and place terms (for each-way) before you confirm. A quick review of our how betting works and each-way guide can help.
Ignoring value and odds
Odds reflect probability and bookmaker margin. Betting on short-priced favourites every time rarely pays in the long run. Learn how odds work and use our odds converter to compare.
Betting when upset or drunk
Never bet to “get even” or when you’re not in a clear frame of mind. Betting should be entertainment. If it stops being fun, take a break. For support, see BeGambleAware.
Please gamble responsibly. If you feel you may have a problem, visit BeGambleAware.org or call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133.