The first time you open a sports betting app, the sheer volume of numbers can feel overwhelming. It looks less like a game and more like a stock market ticker, filled with symbols that seem to follow their own internal logic. However, behind those digits lies a simple code that determines exactly how much you stand to win. Mastering the + and – in sports betting is the essential first step to transforming from a casual fan into a sharp, informed bettor. These symbols aren’t just mathematical filler; they are the indicators of the favorite, the underdog, and the implied probability of an outcome.
Understanding the Minus (-) Sign: The Favorite
In the world of sports wagering, the minus sign is the hallmark of the “favorite.” When a team or athlete has a minus sign next to their odds, the bookmakers believe they are more likely to win the matchup. Because the risk of betting on a favorite is lower, the potential reward is also lower.
The number following the minus sign tells you how much you need to bet in order to make a $100 profit. For example, if you see a team at -150, you must wager $150 to win $100. If they win, you get your $150 back plus your $100 profit. This is the sportsbook’s way of balancing the action; since the outcome is expected, you have to “pay” more for the privilege of backing the winner.
Understanding the Plus (+) Sign: The Underdog
Conversely, the plus sign represents the “underdog.” These are the teams or players that the oddsmakers believe are less likely to emerge victorious. Because the risk of losing your bet is higher, the payout is significantly more attractive.
When you look at + and – in sports betting, the plus sign is where the “value” often resides. The number following the plus sign indicates the amount of profit you will make on a $100 bet. If a team is listed at +200, a successful $100 wager nets you $200 in profit. This “high risk, high reward” dynamic is what makes underdog betting so popular for those looking to build a bankroll quickly.
Beyond the Moneyline: Spreads and Totals
While these symbols are most commonly associated with the moneyline (picking an outright winner), they also apply to point spreads and over/under totals. In a point spread, the favorite will have a minus sign (e.g., -7), meaning they must win by more than seven points for your bet to pay out. The underdog will have a plus sign (e.g., +7), meaning they can either win the game or lose by fewer than seven points for you to win.
According to a report by Entrepreneur on the rapid growth of the gaming industry, the move toward digital sportsbooks has made these calculations more transparent for users. Most modern apps will automatically calculate your potential payout as you type in your wager amount, but understanding the underlying logic is what allows you to spot “bad” lines and find “value” in a crowded market.
Why Do the Numbers Change?
Oddsmakers are constantly adjusting these numbers leading up to a game. These shifts are usually triggered by two main factors: injuries and the “public” money. If a star quarterback is ruled out, a team that was a -200 favorite might quickly drop to -110 or even become a +100 underdog. Similarly, if a massive amount of money is being placed on one side, the bookmaker will shift the odds to encourage betting on the other side to mitigate their own financial risk.
The Professional Approach: Line Shopping
A professional bettor rarely uses just one sportsbook. Because different bookmakers have different opinions on a game, you might find a team at +115 on one site and +105 on another. While a 10-cent difference might seem small, it represents a massive percentage increase in your long-term profitability. By understanding exactly what these symbols mean, you can effectively “shop” for the best price, ensuring that you are always getting the most reward for the risk you are taking.
Taking Control of Your Strategy
Decoding the plus and minus symbols is about more than just understanding a screen; it is about taking control of your financial strategy. It allows you to move away from “gut feelings” and toward data-driven decisions. Once you can read the board as fluently as a seasoned handicapper, the game changes. You stop looking at which team is “better” and start looking at which team provides the best mathematical advantage.
Note:- This platform is created strictly for gaming and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote, support, or encourage gambling activities in any form. Users are advised to play responsibly and follow their local laws and regulations.
