Sports betting is a thrilling world filled with odds, wagers, and the potential for substantial wins. To navigate this landscape successfully, it’s crucial to learn the meaning of the plus (+) and minus (-) signs, as they play a pivotal role in sports betting.
what does the + and – mean in sports betting
In sports betting, every matchup involves two sides: the favorite and the underdog. The favorite is the team or player expected to win the event, while the underdog is the one anticipated to lose. The plus and minus signs are used to identify these roles.
The Plus Sign (+)
This sign designates the underdog in the betting equation. When you see a team or player with odds accompanied by a plus sign, it means they are not the expected winner.
For instance, if a team’s odds are +200, a $100 wager on them could yield a $200 profit if they win.
The Minus Sign (-)
Conversely, the minus sign indicates the favorite. When odds feature a minus sign, it signifies that this team or player is the expected victor.
If a team’s odds are -200, you would need to wager $200 to potentially gain a $100 profit if they win.
Types of sports bets that use the plus and minus signs
The plus and minus signs are versatile and can be found in various types of sports bets:
Moneyline Bets
In this straightforward bet, the plus sign represents the potential payout for an underdog, while the minus sign indicates the amount you need to stake to win $100 on the favorite.
Point Spread Bets
Point spread bets utilize these signs to level the playing field. A minus sign for the favorite means they must win by more than the indicated points, while a plus sign for the underdog implies they can lose by less than the given points or win outright for your bet to succeed.
Over/Under Bets
The plus and minus signs appear here too. If the sign is plus, you bet that the total points scored in the game will exceed the indicated number. If it’s minus, you’re wagering that the total points will stay below that figure.
Example of plus and minus signs in sports betting
- Moneyline Bet: Odds of -200 on a team mean you must bet $200 to potentially earn $100, while odds of +200 on another team imply a $200 profit for every $100 wagered if they win.
- Point Spread Bet: A -7-point spread on a favored team requires them to win by more than seven points. In contrast, a +7 point spread on an underdog means they can lose by fewer than seven points or win outright for your bet to succeed.
- Over/Under Bet: If the over/under is set at 50 points and you bet the over, you win if the total points scored surpass 50. If you bet the under, you win if the total falls below 50.
Conclusion
The plus (+) and minus (-) signs are your guiding stars in the intricate world of sports betting. Armed with this understanding, you can make more informed bets and navigate the exhilarating realm of sports wagering with confidence.
Remember, responsible betting is essential, and knowing the signs is your first step toward success.