Before you start placing bets on sports, you should know some basic rules. Sports betting is a game that requires patience, long-term thinking, and the ability to make smart wagers. There are some basic edges to look for, including the fact that home teams are undervalued in baseball while favorites are overvalued in every other sport. In addition, teams are undervalued after a loss or a blowout.

The first thing you should know about sports betting is that the odds are stacked against you. You can’t win every time, but you can still make money. The key is to have limits and stick to them. If you can’t afford to lose all of your money at once, it’s best to stick to smaller bets or bet less frequently.

Second, don’t drink alcohol before betting. This is especially important if you’re new to sports betting. Alcohol can have an effect on your judgment, and it can cause you to make poor decisions. Another important tip is to never place bets you don’t fully understand.

Third, sports media is filled with opinion pieces and predictions from experts. While they are good for entertainment, they aren’t great for betting. These sources are more interested in making money than making predictions. They make predictions based on emotions rather than on hard facts. And, while you can use opinion pieces to guide your decision, it’s always best to stick to the news.