In order to become successful at Sports Handicapping one must be willing to dedicate a lot of time attention to detail. Most casual bettors simply do not get this involved. They may invest in a sporting event they like based on their favorite teams or the local teams because information is easily accessible on those particular teams.

In contrast, professional sports handicappers look very deeply at the sporting event. They look at things from various angles trying to find an edge on a game. Important elements that are considered by professionals include:

* The strength of the team. This includes basic statistics related to how the team is performing at home, away, against particular teams, in certain weather conditions, etc. The handicapper is looking for the team's strength in the sport that separates them from other teams.

* Box Scores. The professional handicapper studies how the team does during the flow of the game - not just the final score. The professional can then determine if the team routinely starts out slowly and then finishes with a bang, or if they can defend a lead, or if they start strong and then blow it.

* Trends. The professional handicapper will look for trends of the team. Such as, do they routinely under-perform or are they on a winning streak. Do they play better after a long period of rest? The pro will also look for the 'why' to these questions.

* Match ups and Stats. The handicapper will check stats related to how the teams have performed against each other in the past - or in similar situations.

- Coaches and personnel. The experience and effectiveness of the coaching and training will also be evaluated by the handicapper.

The reality is that the average sports investor does not have the time available to thoroughly evaluate every game and team before investing. That is why professional handicappers are necessary.

Professional handicappers eat, sleep, drink and breathe sports and sports odds. So you can put your trust in their choices, relax and enjoy the games knowing that you invested your money wisely. Remember, you are investing in a highly researched and analyzed sporting event.

Before settling on a professional handicapper you should research the services offered. You could also sign up for a short period of time in order to evaluate the handicapper's performance.

This is not a get-rich-quick business. 60% is a great winning percentage, and 53% makes you money. If you enjoy sports investing, set funds aside for it and stick with a smart money management system. Like any business, honesty, integrity and hard work is the best formula for success. Dedication to knowing the items we listed above is what will set one handicapper (or scamdicapper) apart from another.

You need a comfort level that your handicapper is on top of the sports he covers as well as his ability to get the information to you in time for you to take ad antae of the angle providing the edge to win. Remember, 60% is a great winning percentage, 53% makes you money. Do not expect to make a fast buck and get out. It simply is a recipe for disaster. If you like sports betting, set money aside for it and stick with a smart money management and sports betting system.