Sports betting is a gambling activity where the player places wagers on the outcome of a sporting event. The bet can take many forms, including the spread, moneyline, total, and parlay.

Regardless of the type of bet, sports betting is an exciting way to make some extra cash. However, before you place a bet, it’s important to understand the different types of bets and how to use them effectively.

Ties & Draws:

If you’re looking for a low-risk bet, bet on ties or draws. These bets usually pay more than win-or-lose, but they aren’t as popular. They can be a good option if the teams have a low chance of winning or if you’re a fan of one team and don’t like the other.

Total (Over/Under) Bets:

If your team is a favorite, you’ll want to bet on their total number of points. This is similar to a point spread bet, except that the underdog must lose by less than the total amount, or they’ll get their money back.

Pleasers:

The opposite of a teaser, a pleaser involves two or more teams and pays much better odds. Typically, you’ll have to choose multiple games with multiple teams, and the payouts will vary based on the prices of those bets.

Futures:

Unlike traditional futures, futures in the sports betting industry typically involve a longer horizon, such as weeks or months. They also tend to have lower payouts as the season progresses, although they can still offer some value to experienced investors.