Sports betting at 20Bet can be exciting, especially for newcomers who want to test their knowledge and intuition. However, jumping in without preparation often leads to costly errors. Just like in casino games or slots, strategy and patience matter as much as luck. Understanding common pitfalls helps beginners avoid frustration and enjoy the experience responsibly.
Below, we’ll explore the most frequent mistakes new bettors make — and how to steer clear of them.
Why Beginners Struggle in Sports Betting
Sports betting does not just involve forecasting the winners. It entails investigations, money handling, and odds knowledge. It is a mistake to dive in headfirst and bet like in a lottery game, as it soon becomes disappointing.
Betting sites and sportsbooks are easy to use, and even in a simple decision, one can lose it without any necessary knowledge.
Mistake #1: Betting on a Whim.
Most amateurs follow their hearts and make a bet on a favorite team or player without any analysis of data.
Why it’s a problem:
- Emotional choices are blind.
- Weaknesses are disregarded by the fans due to loyalty.
- Losses are subjective, and they result in a higher risk of a bet.
Solution: Stay objective. Bet like it was an actual business decision, not a personal decision.
Mistake #2: Overlooking Bankroll Management
Betting without a plan is one of the quickest methods of losing money.
Setting a Budget
A bankroll is merely the sum of money that you save to bet. Without strict boundaries, the players have a chance to incur losses or bet more than they can afford.
Quick tips:
- Determine the amount to bet per week or month.
- Do not take loans to bet.
- Bet the same amount of money, which is typically 1-5 percent of your bankroll.
Mistake #3: Chasing Losses
After a tough loss, beginners often double their next bet to “win it back.” This is a dangerous cycle.
Why it fails:
- Increases pressure and emotional stress.
- Leads to bigger losses when luck doesn’t turn around.
- Distracts from smart, calculated betting.
The best move? Accept the loss and move forward calmly.
Mistake #4: Bad Odds
Odds are not merely numbers, but a calculation of probability and possible results.
Learning the Basics
Beginners can never assess value bets appropriately without knowledge of the way odds work.
Common odds formats:
- Decimal (1.50, 2.00, etc.): In use in Europe.
- Fractional (3/2, 5/1): Zigzag common in the UK.
- Moneyline (+150, -200): Standard in the US.
Being able to read odds is the first step to knowing when to put money on a bet.
Mistake #5: Ignoring Research
Bets that are made out of the headlines or because the gut feels like a failure formula.
Essential research factors:
- Team and player stats.
- Injuries or lineup changes.
- Recent performance trends.
- Weather conditions for outdoor sports.
Even a quick review of these details can dramatically improve your chances.
Mistake #6: Betting on Too Many Games
New players often think that more bets equal more chances to win. In reality, spreading yourself too thin lowers focus and quality.
Better approach:
- Focus on a few games you’ve researched well.
- Avoid random bets just to stay active.
- Quality over quantity leads to more consistent results.
Mistake #7: Ignoring Bonuses and Promotions
Large betting sites and online casinos provide new players with bonuses, including a free bet or matched deposit. Novices do not take these opportunities or even read the terms.
Smart use of bonuses:
- Always check wagering requirements.
- Use bonus funds to test strategies without risking your main bankroll.
- Avoid platforms with unclear or hidden conditions.