Submitted by rsteel on
A common misconception of the inexperienced sports bettor is what the point spread represents. The myth is that the point spread is a prediction of who will win and by how much. The other myth is the line splits the betting action equally on both sides. This also rarely happens which is why the line is constantly moving after it is posted to attract money to one side or the other.
Timing your entry into the market to place your bet is also very important. As you gain experience you will be able to anticipate which way the line is going to move when you first start monitoring it in the morning. There is nothing more frustrating than betting your pick at +5.0 and 2 hours later it is up to +7.0.
Understanding the art and science of the point spread formulation and movement is essential to being a successful handicapper.