Baccarat is a very flexible game when it comes to side bets. The fundamental gameplay is very simple, and does not require a lot of skill to follow along. This can leave player attention open to riskier wagers that might require a bit more planning.
One thing to keep in mind is that almost every side bet has a lower RTP than base baccarat. While they offer better prizes, they do not pay very often.

Side Bet
Like any standard baccarat bet, side bets are placed during the initial betting stage. However, side bets cannot be placed alone. You have to play banker, player or tie if you want to one of the available side bets.
This is further reinforced by the fact certain side bets work in conjunction with baccarat main bets. Side bets can be usually found off to the sides of the table in online baccarat.

To Place a Side Bet
Once you place a side bet, it is a matter of seeing if it wins or not. Depending on the type of side bet, it may need the associated main bet to win a prize.
That said, there are quite a few side bets that will grant a reward even if your main bet loses. Wagers that task you with forming pairs are the most obvious example of this in action.