When betting on sports, you have a variety of options to choose from. For example, you can place a bet on the winner of a football game or a horse race. Other types of bets include moneyline, futures, and spread bets. Choosing the right option will help you win the most money, while minimizing your risk.

Spread betting

Spread betting is a type of betting where you bet on the outcome of a game based on the point spread between the teams. This betting type is very common, and it is often offered at sportsbooks. The point spread on a football game can range from low single digits to multiple points. In baseball and hockey, point spreads are generally set at 1.5 or more. In soccer, point spreads can range anywhere from 0.5 to several goals.

The benefit of spread betting is that you can use your knowledge of sports to increase your winnings. The betting lines are more detailed and complex, so it’s important to do your research before making a bet. A good strategy is to shop around to find better numbers. Point spreads can also be combined with other types of bets, like parlays. With a parlay, you place a bet on multiple outcomes, and if all components hit, you’ll double your winnings.

Moneyline bets

Moneyline bets in sports betting involve placing wagers on the odds of a sporting event. This type of bet is also referred to as a “pick’em bet.” In pick’em bets, the odds are based on the probability of one team winning or losing the game. A winning moneyline bet can be worth $100 or more.

When placing a moneyline bet, it is important to take into account the history of both teams. This information can help you narrow down the field. The Chicago Bulls, for example, have won five of their last six games at home. You should also take into account the possible payouts. While big favorites often offer very small payouts, underdogs often offer fantastic returns. But when placing moneyline bets, you should never base your decisions entirely on the return you may earn.

Prop bets

Prop bets are a great way to make a profit in sports betting. They can be based on granular data on a player or a specific stat for the game. Some prop bets even focus on one single stat such as the number of touchdowns scored or yards gained during a game. Prop betting is one of the most unique types of sports gambling. Several sportsbooks offer prop bets builder tools that allow you to create your own customized props.

Prop bets, which are not tied to the outcome of the game, are a great way to get started with sports betting. These types of bets can be fun and exciting. They are more difficult to handicap than traditional bets, but can pay off big in the long run.

Futures betting

Futures betting on sports is a great way to hedge your bets if you can’t determine which team will win the game in the near future. When you make a futures bet, you will receive a payout when the long-term action occurs, so if one team loses, you will still have money. This is an attractive proposition to many people.

Futures bets are often presented as fractional odds, which makes them more understandable. While this is a risky form of betting, it can also result in large payouts. However, you’ll have to consider a significant house edge when you bet on the futures market, which can tie up a good portion of your betting account.

Auto racing betting

Auto racing betting is a popular way to bet on a motorsport event. There are a variety of bet types to choose from. One popular option is a “pole position” bet. This wager is placed on the driver who posts the best qualifying time for the event. This kind of bet pays out regardless of which driver takes the checkered flag first.

When betting on an auto race, you should always understand the odds. This way, you can determine if a driver has a high chance of winning the race. You can also use a combination of bet types to maximize your profits. While you may be inclined to bet on one particular race, it’s always best to focus on value and bankroll management when selecting a horse or driver.