The sports betting industry is booming, and many new bettors are getting involved. This is great news for fans, who can now bet on their favorite teams and games legally in more than a dozen states. However, a number of confusing terms and jargon can make it difficult to get started. If you’re new to sports betting, this article can help you learn the basics and avoid common mistakes.

First, it’s important to understand how odds are calculated. Sports books use complex (and secret) analytics to determine the percent chance a bet has of winning. They then convert that percentage to odds and add juice, which is their profit, to come up with the final odds. Knowing this formula can help you compare odds and determine if a bet is good value or not.

Next, you’ll need to learn about the different types of bets available. The most basic bets are moneylines, point spreads, and totals. These bets all focus on predicting the winner of a particular event. However, there are also prop bets that focus on more specific aspects of a game or matchup. These bets can range from the number of points a player will score to the color of Gatorade that will be used by a coach during a game. Prop bets are a good way to add more excitement to a game, but they can be very risky.

Another essential thing to know is the meaning of “covering.” In sports betting, this refers to a team beating a point spread. For example, if the Patriots are 3-point favorites and win by 5, they have covered the spread and made a profit for bettors who placed the bet. This is why it’s so important to research each site and read reviews before deciding where to place your bets.

Finally, it’s essential to understand the difference between implied and actual probabilities. Implied probabilities are the chances a bet will win, while actual probabilities are the chances a bet would lose. The higher the implied probability, the better the bet. In addition, it’s important to be aware of the juice, or vig, which is how a sportsbook takes a cut of each bet, kind of like a mini fee.

Sports betting is an exciting and lucrative industry, but there are a number of factors that can influence your success. By learning the basics, understanding the terminology, and avoiding common mistakes, you can increase your chances of winning and have more fun with your wagers. Remember, though, that no bet is a sure thing, so it’s important to play responsibly and only bet what you can afford to lose. Good luck!