How to Bet on Polymarket
Turn your predictions into profits. Learn the art of trading on the world's largest prediction market.
📈 Start small and scale up as you learn
Understanding Polymarket Betting
Polymarket betting is about buying and selling shares in event outcomes. Here's what you need to know.
YES and NO Shares
Every market has two outcomes. Buy YES if you think it'll happen, NO if you think it won't.
Prices = Probability
A YES share at $0.70 means 70% implied probability. Lower prices = higher potential returns.
Winning = $1.00
Correct predictions pay $1.00 per share. Your profit = $1.00 minus purchase price.
Trade Anytime
You don't have to wait for resolution. Sell your position whenever odds move in your favor.
Placing Your First Bet
Step-by-step guide to making a trade:
Step 1: Choose a Market
Browse categories like Politics, Sports, or Crypto. Pick a market you have knowledge about.
Step 2: Analyze the Odds
Look at current prices, trading volume, and time until resolution. Consider if odds seem fair.
Step 3: Select Your Side
Click YES or NO based on your prediction. The orderbook shows available prices.
Step 4: Enter Amount
Decide how much USDC to spend. Start small until you understand the mechanics.
Step 5: Confirm Trade
Review shares received, potential payout, and confirm. Transaction processes in seconds.
Step 6: Monitor Position
Track your bet in Portfolio. Set mental targets for when to sell or hold to resolution.
Pro Betting Tips
Strategies used by successful traders:
Start with What You Know
Trade in domains you understand. Sports fans trade sports, crypto experts trade crypto markets.
Check Liquidity First
Higher volume markets have better prices and easier exits. Avoid illiquid markets as a beginner.
Use Limit Orders
Set your own price instead of accepting market price. Better entries mean better returns.
Don't Chase Losses
Losing streaks happen. Stick to your strategy and position sizes.
Take Profits Early
If odds move significantly in your favor, consider selling. Locking in profits beats holding to resolution.
Diversify Positions
Don't put all funds in one market. Spread risk across multiple uncorrelated bets.
Betting FAQs
Common questions about trading:
Calculate Your Potential Profits
Use our calculator to plan your trades and understand potential returns.