bo-dog.ca which lists regional options and payout notes, and next we’ll show how to evaluate value on a concrete contest example.
Mini-example: calculating EV on a $20 contest with 10% rake.
Suppose prize pool after rake returns an average multiplier of 4× to winners and you estimate your chance to win a payout spot is 8% (p = 0.08). Expected return per entry ≈ p × average net payout − entry. If the net expected value is negative after rake, skip.
Converting that into unit terms avoids playing above your comfort level, and the next short FAQ answers practical questions beginners ask.
Mini-FAQ
Q: How big should my starting bankroll be?
A: Start with an amount you can afford to lose; many recommend a minimum of $200–$500 to practice unit-sizing; then use 1% units to stay prudent and we’ll now finish with a simple closing strategy recap.
Q: How do I prevent tilt after a bad run?
A: Enforce forced breaks, reduce unit sizes for a fixed cooling-off period, and review past logs to spot reasoning errors; the closing section ties all this together.
Q: Is there a “must-use” software or tool?
A: No single tool is essential; a light spreadsheet and disciplined entry logs outperform fancy tools if you lack rules; next we wrap up with final pragmatic advice.
Final practical recap — what to do this week:
– Set bankroll and unit size, build your entry log, and use the preflight checklist for every entry.
– Play mostly cash games until your model shows consistent ROI after rake.
– Force a 24–48 hour break after losing 3+ sessions and review your log.
Stick to these steps and you’ll dramatically reduce emotional losses while improving long-term skill; the last lines suggest responsible resources and credits.
Sources
– Behavioral finance and gambling literature (general): Kahneman, Tversky themes adapted to gambling psychology.
– Practical staking: Kelly criterion simplification applied to contest EV (common professional application).
– Canadian support resources: ConnexOntario, Gamblers Anonymous (region-specific help for problem gambling).
About the Author
I’m a Canadian-based betting researcher and recreational fantasy player with years of contest experience, spreadsheets full of logs, and a focus on behavioral solutions for novices; I write practical guides that emphasize discipline and measurable decision rules.
If you want platform comparisons and payout notes, a useful compilation is available at bo-dog.ca, and if you need local help, reach out to provincial resources or Gamblers Anonymous; play responsibly and keep the fun ahead of risk.