How to Bet on Sports: A Complete Beginner's Guide
Sports betting has exploded in popularity across the United States since the Supreme Court struck down PASPA in 2018. With dozens of legal sportsbooks now operating in over 30 states, there has never been a better time to learn the fundamentals. This guide walks you through every core concept you need to place your first informed wager.
Understanding the Three Main Bet Types
The vast majority of sports wagers fall into three categories: moneylines, point spreads, and totals (over/unders).
A **moneyline** bet is the simplest form. You pick the team you think will win, and the odds determine your payout. If the Kansas City Chiefs are listed at -150, you must risk $150 to win $100. If the underdog Cincinnati Bengals are +130, a $100 bet pays $130 in profit. Moneylines are ideal for beginners because there is no margin of victory to worry about.
A **point spread** levels the playing field by assigning a handicap. If the Buffalo Bills are -6.5 against the Miami Dolphins, Buffalo must win by 7 or more points for your bet to cash. Miami bettors win if the Dolphins lose by 6 or fewer, or win outright. Spreads typically pay close to even money (-110 on each side).
A **total (over/under)** focuses on combined scoring. The sportsbook sets a number, say 48.5 for an NFL game, and you wager on whether the final combined score lands over or under that figure. Totals let you bet on a game without picking a side.
How to Open a Sportsbook Account
Getting started is straightforward. Choose a licensed sportsbook in your state, download the app or visit the website, and create an account. You will need to verify your identity with a government-issued ID and confirm you are physically located in a legal state via geolocation. Most books accept deposits via debit cards, PayPal, Venmo, and bank transfers. Check our [tools](/tools) for calculations on potential payouts before you place your first bet.
Placing Your First Bet
Once funded, navigate to the sport and game you want to bet on. Tap the odds next to your chosen selection and it appears on your bet slip. Enter your stake, review the potential payout, and confirm. Start with small, flat wagers while you learn. A common beginner mistake is betting too many games at once or chasing losses after a bad beat.
Key Terms Every Bettor Should Know
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Cons:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much money do I need to start sports betting?
Most sportsbooks allow minimum bets of just $1 to $5, so you can start with as little as $20 to $50. The key is choosing an amount you are comfortable losing while you learn. Many experienced bettors recommend starting with a dedicated bankroll of $200 to $500 and betting 1-2% per wager.
Is sports betting legal in my state?
Sports betting is legal in over 30 U.S. states as of 2026, though the exact rules vary. Some states allow online betting while others restrict it to retail locations. See [state guide](/states) for legality details in your area.
Can you actually make money betting on sports?
It is possible but difficult. The sportsbook's built-in vig means you need to win approximately 52.4% of standard -110 bets just to break even. Professional bettors exist, but they rely on disciplined bankroll management, extensive research, and finding value in the odds rather than picking winners based on gut feelings.