Welcome to Stage 2!
Congratulations on completing Stage 1! You now understand the basics of sports betting. In Stage 2, we're going to make you a smarter, more strategic bettor.
Stage 2 Goal
Teach you the fundamentals of bankroll management, introduce odds math and implied probability, discuss beginner mistakes, and introduce basic betting strategies.
1 What is a Bankroll? (Deep Dive)
Your bankroll is the total amount of money set aside for betting only. It should be an amount you are comfortable losing — never rent or essential money.
Key Takeaway
Think of bankroll as your "business budget" for betting. You wouldn't run a business without a budget, and you shouldn't bet without one either.
2 What is a Unit?
A unit is a fixed percentage of your bankroll used to place a bet. Using units keeps betting consistent and controlled.
Standard Unit Size: 1% to 3% of Bankroll
- 1% units — Conservative, recommended for beginners
- 2% units — Moderate risk, for confident bettors
- 3% units — Aggressive, higher risk/reward
✅ Why Units Matter
- Prevents huge losses on bad days
- Keeps your emotions out of betting
- Helps measure performance over time
3 Unit Sizing Chart
| Bankroll | 1% Unit | 2% Unit | 3% Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| $200 | $2 | $4 | $6 |
| $500 | $5 | $10 | $15 |
| $1,000 | $10 | $20 | $30 |
Pro Tip:
Stay consistent! Don't change units based on emotions.4 Common Bankroll Mistakes
🚫 Chasing Losses
Doubling down to win back money = fast way to go broke.
🚫 Betting Too Big
Never go "all-in" on one pick.
🚫 Emotional Betting
Betting when upset or excited leads to losses.
🚫 Not Adjusting Units
Adjust when bankroll changes 25%+.
5 The 6 Rules of Bankroll Management
📋 Your Bankroll Rules
- Set your bankroll and stick to it
- Pick a unit size (1%-2% for beginners)
- Always bet the same unit amount
- Don't chase losses
- Adjust units if bankroll changes 25%+
- Never bet money you can't afford to lose
End of Lesson Checklist
- I understand bankroll as my "betting budget"
- I know how to calculate my unit size
- I know the common bankroll mistakes to avoid
- I've memorized the 6 rules of bankroll management
🎯 Next Lesson Preview
In Lesson 2, we'll dive into Understanding Odds & Implied Probability — the math behind betting that helps you find value!