Why Track Your Bets?
- What gets measured gets improved
- Shows if you're actually profitable
- Identifies what works and what doesn't
- Stops guessing about long-term results
Key Takeaway
Tracking is the difference between a recreational bettor and a serious bettor.
1 What to Track in Every Bet
| Data Point | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Date | Know when bet was placed |
| Sport/Game | Track which sports you win/lose |
| Bet Type | See profitable bet types |
| Odds | Needed for ROI and CLV |
| Stake | Track risk per bet |
| Result | Win/Loss/Push |
| Notes | Why you made the bet |
2 How to Calculate Win Rate & ROI
Win Rate Formula
(Wins ÷ Total Bets) × 100
Example: 55 wins / 100 bets = 55%
ROI Formula
(Profit ÷ Total Wagered) × 100
Example: $200 profit / $1,000 wagered = 20% ROI
3 What is Closing Line Value (CLV)?
CLV measures whether you beat the closing line set by sportsbooks.
Example
You bet at +110
Line closes at +100
Result: You beat the closing line (+10 CLV) — good sign!
Why CLV Matters
Long-term indicator of value betting. Sharp bettors consistently beat the closing line.
4 Using Data to Improve
✅ Identify Strengths
- Which sports you win most
- Best bet types (spreads vs. props)
❌ Spot Weaknesses
- Leagues where you lose
- Bet types that don't work
Pro Tip:
If you see 70% ROI on NBA props but -10% on MLB, focus more on NBA props!End of Lesson Checklist
- I know what data to track for every bet
- I can calculate win rate and ROI
- I understand Closing Line Value (CLV)
- I know how to use data to improve my betting
🎯 Next Lesson
In Lesson 5, we'll cover Building Basic Betting Models!