Sharp vs Square Betting

Introduction

In the world of sports betting, you will often hear the terms "sharp" and "square." These terms are used to describe two different types of bettors. A sharp is a professional, experienced, and successful sports bettor who bets for a living. A square is a recreational bettor who bets for fun. Understanding the difference between these two types of bettors is crucial for anyone who wants to be successful at sports betting.

Characteristics of a Square Bettor

• Bets for Entertainment: The primary motivation for a square bettor is entertainment. They enjoy the thrill of having action on a game and are not necessarily concerned with making a profit.
• Bets on Favorites and Popular Teams: Square bettors tend to bet on favorites and popular teams, such as the Dallas Cowboys or the Los Angeles Lakers. They are often influenced by media hype and public opinion.
• Doesn't Line Shop: Square bettors typically have an account at only one or two sportsbooks and do not take the time to shop for the best lines.
• Chases Losses: When a square bettor is on a losing streak, they will often increase their bet size in an attempt to win back their losses. This is a recipe for disaster.
• Doesn't Have a Bankroll Management Strategy: Square bettors do not have a disciplined bankroll management strategy. They often bet whatever they feel like on a given game, without any regard to their overall bankroll.

Characteristics of a Sharp Bettor

• Bets for Profit: The primary motivation for a sharp bettor is to make a profit. They treat sports betting as a business and are constantly looking for ways to gain an edge over the sportsbooks.
• Looks for Value, Not Just Winners: Sharp bettors are not concerned with picking winners. They are concerned with finding value. A value bet is a bet that has a positive expected value (+EV). This means that if you were to make the same bet over and over again, you would come out ahead in the long run.
• Line Shops Religiously: Sharp bettors have accounts at multiple sportsbooks and always shop for the best lines. They know that even a small difference in the odds can have a significant impact on their long-term profitability.
• Has a Disciplined Bankroll Management Strategy: Sharp bettors have a disciplined bankroll management strategy. They typically bet a small percentage of their bankroll on each game, and they never chase their losses.
• Specializes in Niche Markets: Sharp bettors often specialize in niche markets, such as a smaller college conference or a less popular sport. This is because these markets are often less efficient than the more popular markets, which means there are more opportunities to find value.

How to Bet Like a Sharp

• Focus on Value: Stop thinking about who is going to win the game and start thinking about the probability of each outcome. By consistently making +EV bets, you are giving yourself the best possible chance of being profitable in the long run.
• Do Your Homework: Don't just bet on a team because they are the favorite or because they are on a winning streak. Do your own research and develop your own opinion on the game.
• Shop for the Best Lines: Open accounts at multiple sportsbooks and always shop for the best lines. This is one of the easiest ways to increase your profitability.
• Manage Your Bankroll: Develop a disciplined bankroll management strategy and stick to it. This will help you weather the inevitable losing streaks and stay in the game for the long haul.
• Be Disciplined: Don't let your emotions get the best of you. Stick to your strategy and don't chase your losses.

Conclusion

The difference between a sharp and a square is the difference between a professional and an amateur. While it takes time and effort to become a sharp bettor, it is not impossible. By following the tips in this guide, you can start to think and bet like a sharp and give yourself the best possible chance of being successful at sports betting.