When Betting What Does The Plus And Minus Mean

Betting can be an exciting and lucrative activity, but it can also be confusing for beginners. One of the most common sources of confusion for new bettors is understanding what the plus and minus signs mean in betting odds. In this article, we will break down the meaning of these signs and how they can impact your betting experience.

What Does the Plus Sign Mean?

When you see a plus sign (+) next to a set of odds, it indicates that the team or player is the underdog in the matchup. This means that they are not expected to win the game or event, and therefore have higher odds of winning. For example, if you see odds of +200 on a team, it means that if you bet $100 on them and they win, you will receive $200 in winnings, plus your original $100 bet.

The plus sign is typically used to denote positive odds, which are considered to be less likely to occur. These odds offer a higher potential payout because the outcome is less certain. Betting on the underdog can be a risky move, but it can also be very rewarding if they manage to pull off an upset.

What Does the Minus Sign Mean?

Conversely, when you see a minus sign (-) next to a set of odds, it indicates that the team or player is the favorite in the matchup. This means that they are expected to win the game or event, and therefore have lower odds of winning. For example, if you see odds of -150 on a team, it means that you would need to bet $150 to win $100 in winnings, plus your original $150 bet.

The minus sign is used to denote negative odds, which are considered to be more likely to occur. These odds offer a lower potential payout because the outcome is more certain. Betting on the favorite is generally a safer bet, but it also offers a lower return on investment compared to betting on the underdog.

Understanding the Implied Probability

One way to make sense of the plus and minus signs in betting odds is to consider the implied probability of each outcome. The implied probability is the likelihood of a particular outcome occurring, as indicated by the odds. For example, if a team has odds of +300, the implied probability of them winning is 25% (1 / 4 = 0.25, or 25%).

Conversely, if a team has odds of -200, the implied probability of them winning is 66.67% (2 / 3 = 0.6667, or 66.67%). By understanding the implied probability of each outcome, you can make more informed decisions when placing bets and assess the risk versus reward of each wager.

Factors to Consider When Betting

When deciding whether to bet on the favorite or the underdog, there are several factors to consider. These factors can help you make a more informed decision and increase your chances of winning your bets. Some of the key factors to consider include:

1. Form and Performance

Consider the recent form and performance of the teams or players involved in the matchup. Are they on a winning streak, or have they been struggling to secure victories? Form and performance can have a significant impact on the outcome of a game or event and should be taken into account when placing bets.

2. Injuries and Suspensions

Take note of any injuries or suspensions that may affect the performance of the teams or players. A key player being sidelined can drastically alter the outcome of a game and should be factored into your betting decisions.

3. Head-to-Head Records

Examine the head-to-head records of the teams or players involved in the matchup. Past performances can provide valuable insights into how the teams or players are likely to fare in their upcoming encounter and can help you make more accurate predictions.

4. Home Field Advantage

Consider the impact of home field advantage on the outcome of the game. Some teams perform significantly better when playing in front of their home crowd, while others struggle on the road. Home field advantage can be a crucial factor in determining the outcome of a game and should be taken into account when placing bets.

Conclusion

Understanding the plus and minus signs in betting odds is essential for making informed decisions when placing bets. The plus sign indicates positive odds, which are considered less likely to occur, while the minus sign indicates negative odds, which are considered more likely to occur. By considering the implied probability of each outcome and factoring in key variables such as form, injuries, head-to-head records, and home field advantage, you can increase your chances of winning your bets and maximize your profits in the long run.

Remember to always gamble responsibly and never bet more than you can afford to lose. Good luck!