The only difference between trading CFD's and spreadbet is the nature of the instrument. I am actually not 100% sure on this, but I believe that spreadbets are a product by a broker, where the price is based on the underlying instrument - however where the broker is more able to manipulate the price should they wish to do so. CFD's are instruments where the brokers links you through to liquidity providers in the real market of the instrument. As I said I am not 100% sure on this, so somebody may be able to shed light on this. However in terms of trading the instrument - meaning your technical analysis for whether you want to buy/sell, and at which level etc - should be exactly the same regardless whether you are doing cfd's or spreadbets. Your second question has an easy answer. The application forms should make it crystal clear whether you are applying for CFD or spreadbet. If it's not, ask your potential broker to check.