Jul 10 • 5 min read
Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) is capturing the attention of sports fans everywhere, but many people are still unsure about how it works, its legality, and how to get started. If you're interested in DFS but have lingering questions, here are answers to common questions.

What Are Daily Fantasy Sports?
Daily Fantasy Sports is an online game where participants draft virtual teams composed of real-life athletes and compete against others based on those athletes' actual performance during games. It’s a shorter, more fast-paced version of traditional fantasy sports leagues, which often last an entire season.
Instead of committing to months of team management, DFS contests are completed in as little as a day or a week. You select your team, the real players perform in their games, and the results are scored and ranked quickly.
DFS covers many prominent sports, including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, golf, and even eSports.

Is Daily Fantasy Sports Legal?
The legality of DFS varies depending on where you live. In most countries and U.S. states, DFS is considered a game of skill rather than gambling, which makes it entirely legal. However, some regions still classify DFS as a form of gambling, leading to stricter regulations or outright bans.
Tips for Checking Your Area’s Laws:
- Research your country’s or state’s specific regulations
- Popular DFS platforms often provide legal guidance based on your region.
- Contact customer support on DFS platforms to confirm the availability of services in your area.
How Do You Start Playing Daily Fantasy Sports?
Starting your DFS journey is simpler than you think. Follow these steps:
1. Choose a DFS Platform
There are many DFS platforms to choose from, so look for one that suits your preferences. Wanna Parlay, UnderDog, DraftKings, and PrizePicks are some popular options. Make sure the platform is available in your location.
2. Select a Contest
DFS platforms offer a wide range of contests, such as:
- Cash Games (e.g., head-to-head duels or double-ups): Consistent payouts with lower risk.
- Tournaments (e.g., large-pool competitions): Higher risk but larger payouts.
- Free vs. Paid Contests: Start with free contests to learn the ropes before investing money.
3. Draft Your Team
This is where the fun begins! With salary cap leagues being the most common format, players are assigned virtual salaries and must build a team that fits within a set budget.
Pro Tip: Research player stats and injury updates before drafting to make informed decisions.
4. Monitor and Track Results
Once the contest begins, track your players’ performances in real-time through the platform. Most DFS sites offer live scoring so you can ride the highs and lows of the action as it unfolds.

What Strategies Can Help You Win at Daily Fantasy Sports?
Winning consistently in DFS takes more than luck; it requires strategy, research, and practice. Here are a few tips to boost your chances:
1. Bankroll Management
Set a budget and stick to it. Don’t risk more money than you’re willing to lose, and consider diversifying across multiple contests rather than putting it all into one.
2. Stay Updated on Player News
Monitoring injuries, matchups, and weather conditions is crucial. A last-minute player injury could drastically impact your lineup’s performance.
3. Focus on Lineup Construction
Balance your lineup with high-performing stars and reliable value picks to make the most of your salary cap. Avoid stacking players from the same team unless the matchup strongly favors them.
4. Use Projections and Tools
Many platforms offer analytics and projections for player performances. Tools like lineup optimizers or DFS-specific podcasts can provide valuable insights.
5. Learn from Experience
Track your DFS results, analyze your lineups, and refine your strategies over time to get better as you play.

Is Playing Daily Fantasy Sports Profitable?
DFS can be profitable, but success isn’t guaranteed. Like any competition, some players win big, while others create lineups for the love of the game without turning a profit.
Players who dedicate time to research, strategy, and bankroll management are more likely to find long-term success.
Realistic Expectation:
- Beginners might break even or lose initially while learning the ropes.
- Advanced players use analytics and game theory to gain an edge in larger contests.
How Does DFS Build A Community Among Sports Fans?
One of the overlooked aspects of DFS is how it connects sports fans. Whether through friendly head-to-head competitions, online forums, or social media groups, DFS often fosters enjoyment, camaraderie, and shared excitement for the sports world.
Platforms like Wanna Parlay, DraftKings, and PrizePicks even host live events for top performers, providing unique social experiences for enthusiasts.
Key Takeaways About Daily Fantasy Sports
Daily Fantasy Sports offers an exciting and fast-paced way for sports fans to test their knowledge and skill. While DFS can seem a bit intimidating to newcomers, breaking it down into manageable steps makes getting started easier.
Whether you’re a casual participant or looking to hone your skills, DFS has something for everyone.
Looking for a chance to win real cash prizes? Download our daily fantasy sports app and compete against other players to see who can build the best parlays.
