Hey everyone,

Last time I went to Vegas I would just make my bets and not really know what I was going to win until I looked at my ticket. Is it common for people to ask the ticket writer what will I win if I bet x amount on this game...or what is the payout on this paylay??

Just wondering, I don't want to look like an idiot.

Thanks,

 

While I wouldn't say the question is common, it's also not uncommon. As a recreational bettor, it's usually just easier all saying " give me X for $50". Majority of spreads will be -105 to -125 so you know your payout will range from $40-$48. The biggest issue with "what does it pay?" involves the timing. Tuesday afternoon at 2pm, ask away. Sunday morning during nfl season at 940am you will have a pissed off writer and "friends" behind you in line.

 

If you are asking about a parley which may have money lines in it you can ask the payout before they print it for you. But as was said above if you are asking 1or 2 hours before a big NFL day try to do it earlier in the day. So I would say yes people do ask and most writers are willing to help out.

 

I think the bigger question is... do you really need to know the exact payout before you place the bet when you should already have a rough idea of the payout?

In other words, would you not place the bet if you were off by a few dollars?

 

Disclaimer: I don't bet on sports but ended up knowing something about it from hanging around in poker rooms too much. Check these links out if you want to do a little research before your next trip. The Wizard of Odds article is particularly helpful, and there's a lot of specialized information (sport-specific) you can drill into once you've read the introduction.

That said, there's no shame in asking a writer for help when the book is quiet.

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