What Are Fractional Odds?
Fractional or traditional odds are most commonly used in the UK and still appear frequently on Australian betting sites. These odds show you how much profit you’ll make on your stake.
They are written as a fraction, like 5/1, 10/3, or 2/5, and are pronounced as “five to one” or “ten to three.”
How Fractional Odds Work (with Australian Dollars)
In fractional odds, the first number (numerator) represents the potential profit, while the second number (denominator) is your stake.
So if you see 5/1, it means:
- For every $1 you stake, you make $5 profit
- Your total return is $6 ($5 profit + $1 stake)
📊 Example Table: Understanding Fractional Odds
Fractional Odds |
Your Stake (AUD) |
Profit (AUD) |
Total Return (AUD) |
5/1 |
$10 |
$50 |
$60 |
2/1 |
$10 |
$20 |
$30 |
10/3 |
$10 |
$33.33 |
$43.33 |
1/2 |
$10 |
$5 |
$15 |
2/5 |
$10 |
$4 |
$14 |
How to Calculate Winnings with Fractional Odds
Use this simple formula:
Winnings = Stake × (Numerator / Denominator)
Then add your stake to get the total return.
Example:
You place a $20 bet at 3/2 odds:
Winnings = $20 × (3 ÷ 2) = $30
Total Return = $30 + $20 = $50
How to Place a Bet Using Fractional Odds in Australia
- Log in to your betting account (e.g., LEON Sportsbook, Sportsbet).
- Choose your market – horse racing, AFL, cricket, etc.
- Make sure odds are displayed in fractional format (you can usually toggle between decimal and fractional in account settings).
- Click on the odds next to your selected outcome.
- Enter your stake, review your return, and place the bet.
Why Do Some Aussies Still Use Fractional Odds?
- Traditional punters are more familiar with the.m
- Often seen in UK-based events like Cheltenham or Wimbledon.n
- Some international bookies default to fractional formats
However, many Aussies today prefer decimal odds because they’re easier to understand.
Fractional Odds vs Decimal Odds
Format |
Looks Like |
Easier For |
Total Includes Stake? |
Fractional Odds |
5/1 |
Traditional punters |
No |
Decimal Odds |
6.00 |
Beginners |
Yes |
To convert a fraction to a decimal:
(Numerator ÷ Denominator) + 1
Want to Learn More About Betting Odds & Strategies?
Check out our complete beginner’s betting guide with calculators, strategies, and risk-free methods:
👉 BookiesPedia Betting 101 Guide
FAQs – Fractional Odds Explained
Yes. Betting sites in Australia allow fractional odds, though most display decimal odds by default.
Go to your account settings on your bookmaker's site and look for the "Odds Format" toggle.
It depends on preference. Decimal odds are easier to calculate quickly, while fractional odds are more traditional and still widely used.
No. You must add your stake to your profit to calculate your total return.
Most major betting platforms like Betfair, Sportsbet, and Ladbrokes Australia support fractional odds.
Final Thoughts
Understanding fractional odds gives you another edge in your betting strategy, especially when dealing with traditional markets or comparing value across platforms.
By learning how they work, you’ll be able to:
- Read odds confidently
- Place smarter bets
- Easily convert between formats
.
For more beginner-friendly tips and tools, visit.
👉 https://bookiespedia.com/bet101/