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Wagering 101: a simple starter guide

A clear primer on odds, juice, bet types, reading lines, bankroll sizing, and finalizing your first bet on Betski.

Updated over 2 months ago

New to betting on Betski? This quick guide explains the basics so you can place your first bet with confidence.

What is a bet?

  • You risk money on a game or event.

  • If your prediction is correct, you win based on the posted odds.

What is “juice” (vig)?

  • The juice is our fee built into the odds (often shown as -110 on spreads/totals).

  • Example: -110 means risk $110 to win $100.

  • Lower absolute numbers = less juice on that market.

Deposit bonuses (at a glance)

  • Some deposits can unlock bonus funds or free bets.

  • Always check the terms: wagering requirements, eligible markets, dates, limits.

Core bet types

  • Straight bet
    One game, one outcome. Win by moneyline, spread, or total.

  • Parlay
    Combine 2+ picks into one bet for a bigger payout. All legs must win.

  • Teaser
    A parlay where you move the spread/total in your favor on each leg. Easier to win, lower payout.

  • If bet / Action reverse
    Chain bets in a set order (If bet), or in every order (Action reverse). Later legs only place if earlier legs win.

  • Futures & props
    Futures: season outcomes (e.g., champion).
    Props: specific stats or events (e.g., player yards, first to 10 points).

Reading the lines

  • Favorite / Underdog
    Favorites show minus odds (e.g., -150). Underdogs show plus odds (e.g., +130).

  • Moneyline
    Bet who wins the game.

    • -150: risk 150 to win 100 (favorite)

    • +130: risk 100 to win 130 (underdog)

  • Point spread
    A number added to the underdog or subtracted from the favorite.

    • -3.5 favorite must win by 4+

    • +3.5 underdog can lose by 3 or win and still cover

  • Total (Over/Under)
    Bet on the combined score going Over or Under the posted number.

Tip: Open the bet slip to see stake, potential return, and any special rules before you place the bet.

How much should you wager?

  • Set a budget and use a small unit size (e.g., 1–2% of your bankroll per bet).

  • In the slip you can enter Risk (how much you put down) or Win (how much you want to win); the other number fills in automatically.

Can I undo a bet?

  • All wagers are final once placed. Double-check your market, team, odds, and stake before you confirm.

  • Early Cashout may appear on eligible bets. If offered, you can settle early at the shown price.

Wagering requirements?

  • Each deposit must be wagered at least once before it can be released for withdrawal. Our rate is 1:1, so if you make a $100 deposit, you need to wager a total of $100.

  • For bonus wagering requirements, please review bonus terms.

Quick tips for smarter betting

  • Read the House Rules (push/void, overtime, settlement timing).

  • Track injuries, lineups, weather, rest days, and odds movement.

  • Parlays are fun but harder to hit—keep legs few.

  • Avoid betting with emotion; make picks you’d choose even without fandom.

  • Use 2FA and consider Deposit/Loss/Wager Limits in Responsible Gaming.

Sports you’ll find on Betski

  • NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, NCAA, plus Soccer, Tennis, Golf, Motorsports, Boxing/MMA, and more—availability varies by season and schedule.

Need help?
Live Support or [email protected]. We’re here to guide you.

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