Market mechanics

Prediction Market Order Book Explained

A beginner-friendly explanation of order books, bids, asks and depth for event-contract markets.

Educational note: This article explains market structure and probability reading. It is not financial, legal or trading advice.

Bids and asks

Bids are prices where buyers are willing to buy. Asks are prices where sellers are willing to sell. The distance and size around those levels shape the real cost of entering or exiting.

Depth

Depth measures how much quantity is available near the current price. Low depth means even small orders may move the effective price.

How to read it

For educational research, combine order-book depth with volume, market age, event deadline and rules clarity.

Reader checklist: compare the market wording, price, liquidity and resolution source before treating any probability as meaningful.

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