Understanding the "+" Notation in Betting: A Comprehensive Guide

In the realm of sports betting, understanding the "+" notation is crucial for navigating the odds landscape and making informed decisions. This guide will provide a comprehensive examination of what the "+" means in betting, exploring its significance, usage, and implications.

What Does "+" Represent?

The "+" sign in betting denotes an underdog or less favored outcome. It signifies that the bettor stands to win more than they wager if the underdog prevails. Conversely, a "-" sign indicates a favorite or more likely outcome, where the payout is less than the bet amount.

Understanding Underdog Odds

Underdog odds are expressed in the format +. For instance, "+150" indicates that a bettor would win $150 for every $100 wagered if the underdog wins. The higher the number following the "+", the more significant the underdog and the greater the potential payout.

Table 1: Underdog Odds Payouts

Interpreting Favorite Odds

Favorite odds are expressed in the format -. For example, "-200" signifies that a bettor would need to wager $200 to win $100 if the favorite prevails. The lower the number following the "-", the more heavily favored the outcome.

Table 2: Favorite Odds Payouts

Types of "+" Bets

Underdog bets can be classified into various types:

• Moneyline: Bet on the team or player to win the game outright.
• Point Spread: Bet on the team to win by a certain margin of points.
• Total: Bet on the total number of points scored in the game.
• Parlay: Bet on multiple underdogs in a single wager, increasing the potential payout.

Effective Strategies for Underdog Betting

• Research and analyze: Thoroughly examine team performance, player statistics, and injury reports to identify potential underdogs.
• Manage risk: Limit the proportion of your bankroll allocated to underdog bets.
• Seek value: Look for odds that offer a favorable margin compared to the perceived probability of the underdog winning.
• Consider parlays: Parlaying multiple underdogs can increase the potential payout but also carries increased risk.

Tips and Tricks

• Remember that "+" odds represent underdogs, while "-" odds represent favorites.
• Use a betting calculator to determine the potential payout and wager amount based on the odds.
• Be aware of the vig or commission taken by the sportsbook on each bet.
• Track your betting history to monitor your success rate and identify areas for improvement.
• Seek guidance from experienced bettors or professional sports analysts for insights and advice.

FAQs

1. What if I bet on an underdog and they tie the game?

• Typically, bets on underdogs are forfeited if the game ends in a tie.

2. Can I bet on multiple underdogs in a parlay?

• Yes, Parlays allow you to combine multiple underdog bets for a potentially higher payout.

3. How do I calculate the payout for a point spread bet with + odds?

• Subtract the spread from the final score to calculate the margin of victory. Then, multiply this margin by the fractional odds to determine your winnings.

4. What is the difference between +100 and -100?

• +100 represents an underdog, while -100 represents a favorite. The +100 odds indicate a potential payout of $200 for every $100 wagered if the underdog wins, whereas the -100 odds require a $100 wager to win $100 if the favorite wins.

5. Why do underdog odds change over time?

• Underdog odds can fluctuate based on factors such as player injuries, team performance, and public betting patterns.

6. Should I only bet on underdogs?

• No, while underdogs can provide significant payouts, it is essential to diversify your bets and not solely focus on them.