PickProof Learn
How to Calculate Sports Pick ROI
Return on investment, or ROI, measures net profit relative to the amount risked on graded picks. It adds essential context that a win-loss record alone cannot provide.
The ROI formula
PickProof expresses ROI as net profit units divided by graded risk units, multiplied by 100. Net profit includes the unit result of each graded decision. Graded risk is the sum of the units risked on the picks included in the calculation.
A record with +5 units on 25 units risked has a 20% ROI. The same +5 units on 100 units risked has a 5% ROI. The profit is identical, but the capital exposure represented in units is different.
Calculate each pick before aggregating
At positive American odds, a win earns more than the amount risked. At negative odds, risking one unit earns less than one unit unless the record targets one unit to win. A loss subtracts the recorded risk, and a push contributes zero profit.
The safest method is to preserve each pick's confirmed odds and risk, calculate its unit outcome, and then sum profit and risk. Applying one average price to a mixed record can hide meaningful differences.
Define the period and eligibility
ROI must state its time period and which picks are included. A seven-day public ROI should use only eligible public picks in that period, while an all-time private account view may include a different universe.
Comparisons are meaningful only when the records use consistent grading, unit definitions, and eligibility rules.
Worked ROI example
Suppose three one-unit-risk picks produce +1.20 units, -1.00 unit, and 0.00 units. Net profit is +0.20 units. The PickProof public calculator counts all three recorded risk units, including the returned push risk, so ROI is 0.20 divided by 3.00, or 6.67%.
PickProof calculator results should be interpreted using the formula and risk convention displayed with the record.
Common mistakes
- Dividing profit by the number of wins instead of units risked.
- Using units won without subtracting losses.
- Comparing records that use different unit conventions.
- Reporting ROI without the period, sample size, or amount risked.
Important limitations
- A high ROI over a small sample can change rapidly.
- ROI does not describe drawdown, volatility, average odds, or market difficulty.
- Corrected grades can change both net units and risk totals.
- Dollar returns depend on a user's unit value and are not required for a unit-based record.
Frequently asked questions
Can ROI be positive with a losing win-loss record?
Yes. Wins at larger positive prices can outweigh a greater number of one-unit losses.
Do pushes add profit?
No. A push contributes zero unit profit. The PickProof public calculator includes its recorded risk in total graded risk.
Why show net units and ROI together?
Net units show the result; ROI shows that result relative to the risk used to produce it.
Continue learning
PickProof Learn content is for informational recordkeeping and analytics education. It does not place picks, accept funds, provide individualized advice, or guarantee performance. Odds, scores, grading, closing lines, and calculated metrics may be delayed, corrected, incomplete, or unavailable.