How to read odds

Odds represent the likelihood of an event occurring and are commonly used in gambling, betting, and probability discussions. There are three main formats for odds: fractional odds, decimal odds, and moneyline odds. Here's how to interpret them:


1. Fractional Odds (e.g., 5/1, 3/2):

  • How to read:
    • The first number (numerator) is how much you can win relative to your stake.
    • The second number (denominator) is your stake.
  • Example:
    • 5/1: For every $1 you bet, you win $5 (plus your original stake back, for a total of $6).
    • 3/2: For every $2 you bet, you win $3.
  • Calculation of implied probability: this is picture

2. Decimal Odds (e.g., 6.00, 2.50):

  • How to read:

    • The number represents the total return (including your stake) for every $1 bet.
  • Example:

    • 6.00: A $1 bet returns $6 (profit = $5).
    • 2.50: A $1 bet returns $2.50 (profit = $1.50).
  • Calculation of implied probability:

    this is picture


3. Moneyline Odds (e.g., +200, -150):

  • Positive odds (+): Represent how much profit you'd make on a $100 bet.
  • Negative odds (-): Represent how much you need to bet to win $100.
  • Examples:
    • +200: A $100 bet returns $200 in profit (total payout = $300).
    • -150: You need to bet $150 to win $100 (total payout = $250).
  • Calculation of implied probability: this is picture

Comparison Table

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| Odds Format | Example | Implied Probability | Profit on $10 Stake | Total Payout on $10 Stake | |--------------|---------------|---------------------|---------------------|---------------------------| | Fractional | 5/1 | 16.7% | $50 | $60 | | Decimal | 6.00 | 16.7% | $50 | $60 | | Moneyline | +500 | 16.7% | $50 | $60 |


If you're betting or analyzing probabilities, understanding these formats ensures you're making informed decisions. Let me know if you'd like more help with examples or calculations!

Betting slip
a document that records the details of your wager placed on a sporting event in sports betting.
Oddsmaker
An oddsmaker is a professional who sets the betting odds for sports events, it can also be a bookmaker
bet
Double Result
Double Result is a type of sports betting where you predict both the full-time result and the half-time result of a match.
Value bets
Value bets are wagers that have a higher probability of winning than the odds suggest, offering the bettor a positive expected value over time.
Juice
In sports betting, "juice" refers to the commission or vigorish that the bookmaker charges on bets, adjusting the odds to ensure a profit for the bookmaker regardless of the outcome of the event.
Favourite
In sports betting, the favourite refers to the team that is considered more likely to win the match and typically has lower odds.
outright betting
Outright betting is a long-term bet where the bettor predicts the ultimate winner of a competition before it begins.
Bookmaker/bookie
A bookmaker, often shortened to "bookie," is a person or organization that accepts and pays off bets on sporting and other events at agreed-upon odds.
moneyline
a wager on which team or individual will win a game or event outright, regardless of the margin of victory.