Most people do not lose because they choose the wrong teams. They lose to habits. These are the most frequent.
- Betting without a fixed stake or limit and raising it after a loss.
- Chasing losses with a bigger stake (see Martingale).
- Comparing only profit and not the percentage (ROIi and yield).
- Playing with one bookmaker without comparing odds.
- Putting many legs on one slip, so the margin multiplies.
- Betting on their favourite team with the heart.
- Changing strategy after a few losses, before there is a sample.
- Keeping no record and remembering only the wins.
The most practical fix
Before each bet, write your probability, the odds and the stake in units. If you cannot write them in three lines, do not bet.
If gambling stops being fun, see the responsible gambling lesson and ask for help.