Labouchere Betting System: How the Sequence Really Works

This guide explains the arithmetic without calling the system proven or profitable. The examples use one-unit numbers and even-money returns so every step can be checked.

How does the Labouchere sequence work?

Start with a target line, for example:

1, 2, 3, 4

For each new bet:

1. add the first and last number to set the stake;
2. after a win, remove those two numbers;
3. after a loss, add the lost stake to the end of the line;
4. continue until the line is cleared or you stop.

With only one number left, that number becomes the stake. If the line is cleared at even-money returns, the intended sequence profit equals the sum of the original line. This is an arithmetic outcome, not a guarantee that the required sequence of wins will occur.

A worked Labouchere example

Begin with 1, 2, 3, 4. The original target is 10 units.

The example finishes positively because three wins follow one loss. Change the order and the required stakes change. A calculation that ends well is not evidence that future sequences will do the same.

What happens during a losing run?

A loss lengthens the line and normally increases a later stake. Starting from the same line, four consecutive losses would create these stakes:

• 5 units;
• 6 units;
• 7 units;
• 8 units.

The cumulative amount lost is 26 units, while the next line is 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8. The next stake would be 9 units. The original 10-unit target has not limited the amount exposed.

Does Labouchere improve the chance of winning?

No. The line decides only how much to stake after earlier results. It does not change the event, the accepted odds or the probability that the next selection succeeds.

If the offered price includes an operator margin, changing stake size does not remove that margin. The UK Gambling Commission's RTS 3 requires relevant probability, return or house-edge information to be understandable before a customer commits to gamble. Use that information to assess the bet itself. Do not substitute a staking sequence for price analysis.

Where does the system break in practice?

The sequence can be interrupted by:

• a bankroll that cannot cover the next stake;
• a maximum operator stake;
• odds that are not even money;
• a void, push, partial settlement or commission charge;
• a decision to stop before the line is cleared.

At decimal odds below 2.00, a winning bet returns less profit than the stake. Simply crossing out two numbers then no longer produces the arithmetic shown in the worked example. Adjusting the line for every price creates a different system and does not solve the underlying probability problem.

A calculation checklist

If you are reviewing an old record or spreadsheet:

1. write the line before each bet;
2. record the actual accepted odds;
3. distinguish stake from potential profit;
4. include commission and deductions;
5. record void and partial outcomes explicitly;
6. total all open liability, not only the next stake.

Set a fixed spending limit independently of the line. Do not increase that limit to finish a sequence.

Sources and update record

This guide was recalculated and fact-checked on 27 July 2026. The sequence examples are transparent arithmetic. Regulatory and safer-gambling context was checked against the UK Gambling Commission and GambleAware.

The previous BBA articles described Labouchere as a proven or progressive strategy. Those claims have been removed. This page documents mechanics and risk only.

Frequently asked questions