If you’re new to betting, filling out your first betting slip might feel a little overwhelming. A betting slip is simply a way to record the selections you want to bet on, the amount you’re willing to stake, and the type of bet you’re placing.
Whether you’re betting at a physical bookmaker or online, understanding how to complete a betting slip can help make the process clearer and help you avoid common mistakes. This guide aims to make you feel more knowledgeable when filling out your betting slip, even if it’s your first time.
What Is a Betting Slip?
A betting slip is a form, either paper-based or digital, where you record the details of your bet. In a betting shop, you will typically use a small paper slip. When betting online, your selections will usually be displayed on the website or app, often in a clear box on the side of the screen.
Each bet you place, whether in person or online, will require a separate slip for every wager. It’s important to double-check your selections before confirming your bet to ensure everything is exactly as you intended.
Odds are typically shown next to your selection, indicating the potential returns relative to your stake. In the UK, these odds are often displayed as fractions, like 2/1 or 5/2. If you’re ever unsure about how to complete a betting slip, many shops and websites offer guides or staff who can assist you.
How Do You Write a Betting Slip?
Filling in a betting slip is about clearly communicating your choices to the bookmaker so your bet can be processed correctly.
To begin, write down the event you’d like to bet on, such as a football match or horse race. Next, choose the type of bet you’d like to place, whether it’s a single bet or one involving multiple selections. Then, specify the outcome or participant you’re betting on, such as a football team or a horse. Finally, add your stake (the amount of money you wish to wager).
If you’re using a paper slip, ensure that your writing is clear and legible. On websites or apps, you’ll typically make your selections using menus or tick boxes to make the process easier.
How To Write a Lucky 15 Betting Slip
A Lucky 15 is a popular multiple bet, especially in horse racing. It involves 15 individual bets spread across four selections.
To complete a Lucky 15 slip:
- List your four selections (whether it’s a horse, team, or event).
- For each selection, provide the event details, such as the race, match, or event name.
- Clearly write “Lucky 15” on the slip.
- Enter your stake for each bet. For example, if you stake £1 per bet, the total stake will be £15, as there are 15 bets in total.
- Double-check your selections to ensure everything matches the correct stake and the Lucky 15 label. This will help minimise the chance of errors.
How To Write a Horse Betting Slip
To fill in a horse betting slip, start by writing the name or number of the horse you’re betting on. You’ll also need to include the race time and venue, such as “2:30 Newcastle,” so the bookmaker knows exactly which event you’re referring to.
Next, choose the type of bet you’d like to place. If you’re backing a horse to win the race, simply write “win” next to your selection. If you’d like to cover both the chance of the horse winning and placing (usually second or third), you can select “each way.” An each-way bet involves two separate wagers: one for the win and one for the place, so it effectively doubles your stake.
It’s important to remember that with an each-way bet, your stake is effectively doubled since you are placing two separate bets (for both the win and the place). Before finalising your bet, take a moment to double-check all the details to ensure everything is correct.
How To Write a Football Betting Slip
When placing a bet on football, it’s important to record the match and your selection clearly. Start by writing the teams involved, such as “Arsenal v Everton,” and include the match date or code if available.
Next, choose the specific outcome you’re betting on. This could be the final result, the first goal scorer, or another available option. If the slip asks for it, include the odds next to your selected outcome. It might be a good idea to double check your stake and choices before placing the bet- this could help to reduce the likelihood of any potential errors.
How Long Are Betting Slips Valid For?
A betting slip remains valid until the event has finished. Once you’ve submitted your slip, it may be wise to keep it in a safe place. For paper slips, you usually have between 6 and 12 months from the event date to claim any winnings, depending on the bookmaker’s policy.
For online bets, any winnings are credited directly to your account if your bet is successful. If you lose or forget about a winning paper slip, it could be a good idea to check the bookmaker’s specific rules regarding unclaimed winnings, as each bookmaker has its own procedure.
Make sure to place your bet before the event begins, as slips are no longer valid once the event starts.
What Happens If You Lose a Betting Slip?
Losing a paper betting slip before collecting any winnings can complicate the process, as the slip is often required to verify your bet. Most UK bookmakers use the slip as proof of your wager, so it’s important to keep it safe until the event has finished.
Some bookmakers may allow you to attempt a claim by providing details such as the time, stake, or event, but there’s no guarantee of success, especially for smaller bets or if you cannot recall the specifics of your wager.
If you’re betting online, you don’t need to worry about losing a paper slip, as your bets are automatically tracked and stored in your account history.
Each bookmaker has its own procedure for lost slips, so if you do lose one, it might be helpful to check with staff about your options.
