Making Your First Bet With a Sportsbook

If you’ve made it to this post far in our sports betting guide series, chances are you’re ready to place your first bet. Sports betting can initially be intimidating, but the process is simpler than you think. 

Let’s break it down and share a few tips to help you get started on the right foot.

What to know before you start

Sports betting is fun, but it’s important to set the right expectations.

• Winning isn’t easy: Sports are unpredictable, and even the best research can’t guarantee a win.
• Most bettors lose: While it’s possible to make money long-term by following a solid strategy, most people bet for entertainment.
• Bet responsibly: Never wager more than you can afford to lose, and remember—it’s still fun even when you don’t win. If it ever stops being fun, it’s time to take a break.

At BettingLadies.com, we believe betting should always be fun. Keep it lighthearted and focus on the excitement of having some stake in the game.

How to place a bet

Once you have signed up with one of the sports betting websites that we recommend, placing a bet comes down to three basic steps:

1. Choose your side: Decide which team or outcome you want to back.
2. Set your stake: Determine how much money you’re comfortable wagering.
3. Make your selection: Place your bet through your chosen sportsbook or betting app.

While the exact process might vary depending on the sportsbook, these steps are universal. If you need more guidance, check out the detailed signup guides for each of the sportsbooks (like FanDuel) to help you create an account with one of our trusted sportsbook partners.

Tips for new bettors

If you’re just starting out, we have an article with some beginner tips.  

If you don't have time to read that article, here are some simple tips to help you dive in with confidence:

• Set a budget: Decide how much you’re comfortable spending and stick to it.
• Don’t go all-in on one bet: Spread your wagers across multiple bets to minimize risk.
• Bet on sports you know: Stick to sports and teams you enjoy and understand.
• Learn the basics: Research different types of bets and basic betting strategies to improve your odds.
• Be patient: Success takes time, and even the best bettors lose sometimes.
• Look for value: Learn how to spot bets where the odds are in your favor.

Join the Betting Ladies community

Here at Betting Ladies, our mission is to make all forms of gambling fun, accessible, and empowering for women. Whether you’re betting for the thrill, the strategy, or just to make the games more exciting, you’ll find support, tips, and tricks to help you along the way.

Ready to get started? Sign up today and join a group of like-minded women who are in it for the fun—just like you!