How to Read Odds (+/-)
Introduction
Understanding betting odds is the first step to becoming a successful sports bettor. Odds show you two key things:
- How much you can win, and
- How likely the sportsbook thinks that outcome is.
In the U.S., the most common format is American odds, represented by a plus (+) or minus (–) sign.
➕ What Do Positive Odds Mean? (+)
Positive odds (e.g., +150) represent underdogs. They tell you how much profit you’d make on a $100 bet.
- Example: If the Chicago Cubs are listed at
+150and you bet $100, you’d win $150 in profit (and get $250 total back).
➖ What Do Negative Odds Mean? (–)
Negative odds (e.g., -110) represent favorites. They show how much you’d need to bet to win $100.
- Example: If the Kansas City Chiefs are
-110, you’d need to bet $110 to win $100 (total payout: $210).
🧠 Quick Reference Table
| Odds Type | Meaning | Bet $100 Wins | To Win $100 Bet |
|---|---|---|---|
+200 |
Underdog | $200 | — |
+150 |
Underdog | $150 | — |
-110 |
Favorite (standard) | — | $110 |
-200 |
Heavy Favorite | — | $200 |
✅ Why It Matters
Knowing how to read odds helps you:
- Spot value in underdog plays
- Understand payouts
- Compare books for the best lines
You don’t need to be a math genius — just know what the signs (+/-) mean and how they relate to your bet.