When it comes to sports betting, bettors can make a variety of different wagers on the outcomes of sporting events. The type of bet a player makes depends on a number of factors, including how much money they are willing to risk; the odds that are established by sportsbooks in states where legal sports betting is permitted; and what sport or event they are betting on.

The most popular wagers are based on point spreads, which represent the number of points the favored team must win by to cover the bet. Bettors can choose to take the spread (betting on the underdog) or give it (betting on the favorite). The over/under is another popular type of bet, in which players wager that the total points scored by both teams will be more than a certain number.

There are also prop bets, or proposition bets, in which bettors predict things that might happen during a game, such as what color Gatorade will be dumped on the winning coach or who will win the coin toss. These bets can provide some of the most excitement and are often offered at higher payouts than traditional bets.

When betting on a sports event, it’s important to check the rules and regulations of each site carefully before placing any wagers. This includes investigating whether the sportsbook treats customers fairly, has proper security measures to protect personal information, and pays out winnings promptly and accurately upon request. It’s also a good idea to read independent/non-partisan reviews of sportsbooks before making any bets.