How to Calculate Odds: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you someone who enjoys sports betting, but wants to learn how to calculate the odds of a particular event? If yes, then you have come to the right place. In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about calculating odds, including the different types of odds, how to convert them, and more.

Understanding the Basics of Odds

Let's start with the basics. Odds are a numerical expression that indicates the likelihood of an event occurring. In sports betting, they are used to determine the payout for a winning bet.

Types of Odds

There are three main types of odds: American, fractional, and decimal.

Type of OddsFormatExamplePayout
AmericanPlus or minus sign+150 or -150$150 for every $100 bet or $100 bet to win $150
FractionalFraction2/1$2 for every $1 bet
DecimalDecimal3.00$3.00 for every $1 bet

Calculating Probability from Odds

Now, let's discuss how to calculate probability from odds.

Converting American Odds to Probability

To convert American odds to probability, you can use the following formula:

Probability = (Negative Odds) / ((Negative Odds) + 100)

For example, if the odds are -150, the calculation would be:

Probability = 150 / (150 + 100) = 0.6

This means that there is a 60% chance of the favorite winning the event.

To convert positive odds to probability, you can use the following formula:

Probability = 100 / (Positive Odds + 100)

For example, if the odds are +150, the calculation would be:

Probability = 100 / (150 + 100) = 0.4

This means that there is a 40% chance of the underdog winning the event LeoVegas.

Converting Fractional Odds to Probability

To convert fractional odds to probability, you can use the following formula:

Probability = (Denominator) / (Denominator + Numerator)

For example, if the odds are 2/1, the calculation would be:

Probability = 1 / (2 + 1) = 0.3333

This means that there is a 33.33% chance of the event occurring.

Converting Decimal Odds to Probability

To convert decimal odds to probability, you can use the following formula:

Probability = 1 / Decimal Odds

For example, if the odds are 3.00, the calculation would be:

Probability = 1 / 3.00 = 0.3333

This means that there is a 33.33% chance of the event occurring.

Calculating Payouts from Odds

Now, let's talk about how to calculate payouts.

Calculating Payouts from American Odds

To calculate payouts from American odds, you can use the following formulas:

For negative odds:

Payout = (Stake / Negative Odds) * 100

For example, if you bet $100 on odds of -150:

Payout = (100 / 150) * 100 = $66.67

This means that your total payout would be $166.67 ($100 stake + $66.67 profit).

For positive odds:

Payout = (Positive Odds / 100) * Stake

For example, if you bet $100 on odds of +150:

Payout = (150 / 100) * 100 = $150

This means that your total payout would be $250 ($100 stake + $150 profit).

Calculating Payouts from Fractional Odds

To calculate payouts from fractional odds, you can use the following formula:

Payout = (Numerator / Denominator) * Stake

For example, if you bet $100 on odds of 2/1:

Payout = (2 / 1) * 100 = $200

This means that your total payout would be $300 ($100 stake + $200 profit).

Calculating Payouts from Decimal Odds

To calculate payouts from decimal odds, you can use the following formula:

Payout = Decimal Odds * Stake

For example, if you bet $100 on odds of 3.00:

Payout = 3.00 * 100 = $300

This means that your total payout would be $400 ($100 stake + $300 profit).

Benjamin O’Shea
Benjamin O’Sheaverified

Calculating odds is an essential skill for anyone interested in sports betting. By understanding the different types of odds, how to convert odds to probability, and how to calculate payouts, you can make more informed betting decisions. With this comprehensive guide, you are well on your way to becoming a successful sports bettor.

FAQ

What are odds?

Odds are a numerical expression that indicate the likelihood of an event occurring. In sports betting, they are used to determine the payout for a winning bet.

What are the different types of odds?

There are three main types of odds: American, fractional, and decimal.

How do I convert American odds to probability?

To convert American odds to probability, you can use the following formula:

Probability = (Negative Odds) / ((Negative Odds) + 100)

How do I convert positive odds to probability?

To convert positive odds to probability, you can use the following formula:

Probability = 100 / (Positive Odds + 100)

How do I convert fractional odds to probability?

To convert fractional odds to probability, you can use the following formula:

Probability = (Denominator) / (Denominator + Numerator)

How do I convert decimal odds to probability?

To convert decimal odds to probability, you can use the following formula:

Probability = 1 / Decimal Odds

How do I calculate payouts from odds?

To calculate payouts from odds, you can use different formulas depending on the type of odds. For American odds, use the formulas provided in the guide. For fractional odds, use the following formula:

Payout = (Numerator / Denominator) * Stake

For decimal odds, use the following formula:

Payout = Decimal Odds * Stake

What is the importance of understanding odds?

Understanding odds is essential for making informed betting decisions in sports betting. Knowing how to calculate the probability of an event occurring and the potential payout for a winning bet can help you make more informed decisions when placing bets.

What is the difference between a favorite and an underdog in sports betting?

In sports betting, the favorite is the team or individual that is expected to win the event, while the underdog is the team or individual that is expected to lose. The odds for the favorite are usually negative, while the odds for the underdog are usually positive.

How can I use odds to my advantage in sports betting?

By understanding how to calculate odds, you can make more informed betting decisions. You can use odds to determine the likelihood of an event occurring and the potential payout for a winning bet. This information can help you decide which bets to place and how much to wager.