~snip~
Now I find it important that beginners know first at least the most common types of sports bets so that they can maximize their sports betting experience.
Here are the most common types:
1. Straight bet
2. Money line bet
3. Total line bet
4. Parlay bet
5. Head-to-head bet
Source with full explanation and examples: MOST COMMON TYPES OF SPORTS BETS
That's straight betting. Here's the explanation with an example coming from the MOST COMMON TYPES OF SPORTS BETS
In order for you to win on your bet on the favorite or the stronger team, the team has to win by more than the point spread against the underdog. And for you to win on your bet on the underdog or the weaker team, the expected team to lose has to win outright or lose by less than the point spread.
Example:
GSW – Golden State Warriors (favorite) vs TOR – Toronto Raptors (underdog)
Point spread: 9.00
You win on your GSW bet if GSW wins by 10 points or above against TOR.
You win on your TOR bet if TOR loses by 8 points or below to GSW or wins outright against GSW.