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There are two methods to approach sports betting: top-down and bottom-up. Top-down betting involves identifying a “source of truth” (a sharp sports book) and finding a better price elsewhere. This method is proven to work, as bettors can capture the closing line value. Top-down betting is scalable and requires little domain knowledge, but it's time-intensive, requires real-time access to odd screens, and may not be effective in less efficient markets. Additionally, some sports books may not like it, as it can expose their stale lines and cause them to act vindictively.

On the other hand, bottom-up betting involves building one's own opinion on what the line should be. This can be done through models, qualitative analysis, or seat-of-the-pants handicapping. Bottom-up betting requires more resources, can be less effective in efficient markets, and is harder to quantify one's edge. However, it provides more control, is stronger in less efficient markets, and is better suited for one-off markets and derivative markets.

Ultimately, the choice between top-down and bottom-up betting depends on one's individual approach, resources, and goals. Top-down is more proven, scalable, and quantifiable, but requires real-time access to odd screens and may not be effective in all markets. Bottom-up is more personal, requires more resources, and is harder to quantify, but provides more control and is better suited for less efficient markets.