Sports betting is a huge part of the gambling industry. But if you’re just getting started, it can be confusing to figure out all the different types of bets and odds. This article will break down the basics, so you can start placing bets with confidence.

Odds in sports betting are based on the probability of a certain outcome happening. They’re designed to even the betting action by reducing the bookmaker’s financial risk. However, they don’t reflect how much a sports expert believes a team will win or lose. This is why experienced bettors recognize the accuracy of the lines and choose games in which they believe the lines do not accurately reflect the expected outcomes. This gives them an edge over the bookmakers.

The most basic type of bet is a straight bet, which is simply wagering on a specific outcome. The number of possible outcomes in a single game depends on the sport and the event, but the vast majority of bets are placed on teams to win or lose. In addition to the moneyline odds, sportsbooks also offer odds on the number of points a team will score or lose by, which are called point spreads. In a point spread, the team with the lower number is considered the underdog. The bettor who places the bet with the higher number wins.

Another common type of bet is the totals bet. Also known as over/under bets, these wagers are based on the total number of runs, goals, points and other factors that will be scored in a given game. For example, if the Los Angeles Rams and Seattle Seahawks are playing each other, the total for the game is posted as 42.5. If you expect a defensive slugfest, you’d place your bet on the under. If you expect a high-scoring shootout, you’d place your bet on over.

When you’re ready to place your bet, simply click on the sport and all available bets and ways to bet will come up. You can then input your desired amount of bet and click “Confirm” or similar to submit the bet. The odds for each bet will then be displayed, along with the potential payout if your bet is successful.

Lastly, be sure to read the house rules. These are often slightly different from one sportsbook to the next, and can significantly affect your experience. The most important thing is to stick to your budget and avoid chasing losses by attempting to make back the money you lost on bad bets.

Some people turn a profit betting on sports, but it’s not easy and requires a lot of work. Those who do manage to stay profitable must be proficient in multiple areas, including research, bet tracking, bankroll management and betting strategy. The good news is that you can learn how to bet on sports and improve your profits with a little time and effort. Good luck!