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What is Labouchère System Betting?
The Labouchère system betting is a strategy devised by the 19th-century British politician Henry Labouchère, characterized by achieving a target profit in multiple stages rather than risking the entire amount in a single bet.
In the world of gambling, various mathematical betting systems exist, designed to minimize losses and maximize profits.
Among them, the Labouchère system betting method is also known as the ‘Cancellation System,’ and as its name suggests, it is designed to reach a target profit by sequentially canceling numbers in a specific sequence.
The core of the Labouchère system lies in its mathematically designed structure for balancing profit and loss.

Users set a certain target profit and create a sequence by dividing that amount into smaller units.
Each number in this sequence represents a betting unit, and the betting amount is determined by the sum of the first and last numbers.
This method feels very systematic and mathematically organized.
However, in actual casino games of chance, randomness and independence exist, so the profit promised by the Labouchère system is not always realized.
Each bet must be recognized as a completely independent event, and previous results have no bearing on subsequent odds.
Therefore, while this system may seem theoretically perfect, in reality, it has a structural limitation where risks accumulate.
Primarily used in casino games like Baccarat, Roulette, and Craps, this system sets a ‘target profit‘ and adjusts bets in a specific way to achieve it.
The basic concept of Labouchère system betting is “reduce the betting amount with each win, and continue betting additionally with each loss.”
It is known as a relatively safe betting technique because it aims for repeated small wins rather than a single large win.
Labouchère System Betting Method

The Labouchère system betting method is a mathematical betting strategy that sets a specific sequence to achieve a target profit in stages.
It determines the betting amount by combining the user’s set target profit divided into several units.
The basic principle is to bet the sum of the numbers at both ends of the sequence and modify the sequence based on the result.
| Stage | Sequence Change Example | Betting Amount (Units) | Result | Next Sequence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1-2-3-4 | 5 | Loss | 1-2-3-4-5 |
| 2 | 1-2-3-4-5 | 6 | Win | 2-3-4 |
| 3 | 2-3-4 | 6 | Win | (All deleted) |
| Final Result | – | – | – | Target profit of 10 units achieved |
For example, let’s assume the target profit is 10 units and the sequence is set to 1-2-3-4.
Then the first bet is 1+4=5 units.
If you win, you cross out the two numbers and recalculate with the remaining sequence; if you lose, you add that betting amount to the end of the sequence.
Ultimately, when all numbers in the sequence disappear, the user achieves the initially defined target profit.
The advantage of this method is that betting is systematically structured.
In other words, it operates according to mathematical rules rather than emotional judgment, preventing mistakes.
However, in the event of consecutive losses, the sequence can lengthen and betting amounts can increase rapidly, leading to unmanageable losses.
Since real casinos have betting limits and capital is not infinite, perfect implementation of the Labouchère system is difficult.
Therefore, this strategy is closer to a betting management training or probability learning model than a 100% stable profit guarantee.
Labouchère System Betting Strategy

The most important points when applying the Labouchère system strategy are setting clear fund limits and controlling emotions.
Since betting amounts increase rapidly depending on the length of the sequence, it is advisable not to invest more than 5-10% of your total funds in a single sequence.
Also, if consecutive losses occur, numbers must be continuously added to the end of the sequence, so early game losses can significantly impact the overall strategy.
In practice, sequences are generally constructed based on small amounts of 1-2 units and flexibly adjusted according to wins and losses.
If you win, you remove the numbers at both ends of the sequence to reduce risk; if you lose, you add the amount but prevent excessive expansion.
In particular, in real casinos with betting limits, if 6-7 consecutive losses occur, the system is likely to become unsustainable.
The practical application of the Labouchère system is essentially a short-term recovery strategy.
That is, it focuses on achieving small gains in short periods, and there is a probabilistic disadvantage to viewing it as a long-term profit model.
Therefore, it is essential to set a standard in advance for ‘when to stop’.
| Situation | Betting Amount Change | Risk Level | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 consecutive wins | Decrease | Low | Sequence reset possible |
| 3-4 losses | Sharp increase | High | Fund readjustment needed |
| 5+ losses | Very sharp increase | Very High | System shutdown recommended |
| After achieving small profit | Stable | Low | Session end recommended |
This table summarizes the risk management flow in practice.
Ultimately, the Labouchère system is most meaningful when used as a training system for understanding mathematical logic and maintaining control.
This is because, while it may seem theoretically perfect, in reality, it can always encounter limitations in the face of variables such as finite funds and psychological factors.
Games Suitable for the Labouchère System
The Labouchère system is a strategy that follows a negative progression method, making it useful in games where recovering losses after a defeat is important.
This system helps to win gradually through moderate probabilities and repeated betting, so it is suitable for games with simple rules and consistent probabilities.
Here are 3 games where the Labouchère system can be effectively applied:
1. Baccarat

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Baccarat has very simple rules and Player (45%), Banker (46%), and Tie (9%) with clear win/loss probabilities. This system can be used by selecting Player or Banker and adjusting the sequence based on winning or losing results.
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Suitability: The Labouchère system requires accumulating consecutive wins, making it suitable for Baccarat, where repeated betting is important. Since the game’s win probability is consistent, you can manage your funds while applying the system.
Baccarat Rules and Guide [Reference Link]
2. Roulette

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Roulette offers many betting options with red, black, even, and odd like 2x payouts. Roulette, with its repeated short-term wins and losses, aligns well with the Labouchère system’s characteristic of recovering losses after a defeat.
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Suitability: When betting in Roulette based on 2x payouts, the Labouchère system can be effective in achieving target profits. However, since Roulette does not have intermediate results like ties, it is advantageous if only wins and losses occur repeatedly.
Learn Roulette Rules and Strategy [Reference Link]
3. Blackjack

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Blackjack is a game where card probabilities and counting can be effectively utilized, but it also has simple win/loss probabilities. The Labouchère system is also valid in card games, especially suitable due to 2x payout betting options and the ability to adjust the next bet after a loss.
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Suitability: Blackjack is good for proceeding with fixed probabilities and relatively low betting amounts. As long as losses are not repeated, it can be used to slowly increase funds.
Complete Guide to Blackjack Rules [Reference Link]

Labouchère System Betting Pros and Cons
Advantages of Labouchère System Betting
Easy to manage funds

The Labouchère system is designed to prevent significant losses from a single defeat, making fund management very efficient.
Methods like the Martingale system, which doubles the betting amount, can rapidly deplete funds.
However, the Labouchère system gradually increases the betting amount after a loss, which reduces the risk of immediately losing funds even after a single defeat.
For example, while in Martingale, consecutive losses can lead to an exponential increase in betting amounts and potential fund depletion, Labouchère allows for efficient fund management by gradually increasing betting amounts after a loss.
Additionally, this system sets a target profit and creates a sequence accordingly, allowing for the prediction of fund flow.
By gradually adjusting the amount based on wins and losses, and not betting large sums after a single loss, but rather slowly recovering losses, it provides long-term stability.
As such, the Labouchère system is designed to manage risk and is suitable for long-term play, minimizing the risk of running out of funds.
Stable Wins

One of the biggest advantages of the Labouchère system is achieving target profits by accumulating small wins.
This system does not aim for large wins but can recover losses or make profits through multiple small wins.
By aiming for short-term wins, it reduces the risk of over-betting after a loss and provides an opportunity to achieve goals quickly.
If the target profit is 100,000 won, this system allows you to achieve the goal through small wins like 10,000 won, 20,000 won, etc.
Consecutive wins bring you closer to the goal, which is more advantageous for reducing uncertainty and pursuing stable profits than waiting for a single big win.
Furthermore, since the Labouchère system gradually increases funds, after a win, you can quickly adjust your betting amount and anticipate larger wins.
In this regard, this system is suitable for those who pursue consistent wins over a long period, and as a strategy capable of short-term wins, it has a high probability of achieving continuous success.
Applicable to Various Games

Another major advantage of the Labouchère system is its flexibility in application across various games.
This system is suitable for games with consistent odds and can be used very effectively, especially in games that offer 2x payouts.
It is effective in games where simple rules and repetitive wins/losses are important, and it is advantageous for managing funds and gradually pursuing target profits.
The Labouchère strategy works very effectively in games with consistent win/loss predictions that offer double payouts, and its flexibility to adapt to various games provides the advantage of adjusting the strategy according to the situation when enjoying multiple games.
Using this strategy allows you to create betting strategies tailored to the characteristics of each game, aiming for more stable and continuous wins across various games.
Disadvantages of Labouchère System Betting
Risk of Consecutive Losses

The Labouchère system follows a method of recovering losses after a defeat, so if consecutive losses occur, the betting amount can increase rapidly.
For example, if you increase the betting amount after the first loss, and then increase it again after the second loss, the betting amount will continue to grow as consecutive losses continue.
In this process, there is a risk of rapid fund depletion, and especially if the target profit is large, more funds will be needed, which can quickly exhaust your capital.
If losses continue, you may eventually have to end the game before reaching your target profit.
Therefore, if consecutive losses occur, this system may become ineffective, and you may run out of funds or have to quit the game before achieving your goal.
Complex Betting Process

The Labouchère system adjusts betting amounts based on a sequence, where the first and last numbers are added to determine the bet, and the sequence is adjusted based on wins and losses.
This process, which involves gradually adding or removing numbers as betting is repeated, can feel somewhat complex for beginners.
Furthermore, understanding and correctly applying this system requires time and experience, and there is a possibility of not applying it correctly in practice.
If you make a mistake in the process of removing or adding numbers in the sequence, you could make incorrect bets and incur greater losses than expected.
Therefore, sufficient practice and understanding are necessary before starting the game, and it is important to strive to reduce mistakes during the betting process.
Long Time Required

The Labouchère system is a strategy that accumulates small wins, so it can take a long time to achieve the target profit.
This system does not aim for large wins but rather pursues profit gradually by repeating small wins multiple times.
As a result, the larger the target profit, the longer this process can take.
Especially if the target profit is large, you may need to play the game for a long time, and the betting amount can gradually increase, extending the game duration.
This requires patience and a long time from the player, and they may face situations where funds run out or time is consumed during play.
For those who expect quick results, continuous play can be inconvenient, and there is a risk of getting tired or running out of funds before reaching the target profit.
Points to Note for Labouchère System Betting

When utilizing the Labouchère system betting, particular attention should be paid to setting the length of the sequence and managing the progression.
This system’s betting pattern and recovery speed vary depending on the sequence length, but it is generally stable to use 6-8 numbers.
If the sequence is too short, the target profit becomes smaller and the range of strategic adjustment decreases, while conversely, if it exceeds 10, the sequence becomes excessively complex and the probability of failure increases.
Therefore, limiting the sequence to 10 or fewer is efficient, and the success rate is relatively higher.
Additionally, during betting, you must clearly record the sequence changes at each stage.
Even small errors in the order or summation process of the sequence can disrupt the overall strategic balance.
It is advisable to use a manual record sheet or a simple table to prevent calculation errors.
Arbitrarily changing the sequence structure or spontaneously resetting it during betting should be avoided, as it diminishes the meaning of the strategy.
The key to Labouchère system betting lies not in funds, but in maintaining a consistent sequence, calculation accuracy, and adhering to the initial design rules until the end.
Labouchère System Related FAQ
Frequently asked questions
1. How do I set the target profit in the Labouchère system?
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Answer: Set a target profit and divide it into small units to create a sequence. Example: To target 100,000 won, divide it into 10,000 won, 20,000 won, 30,000 won, etc., and determine the betting amount by adding the first and last numbers.
2. How do I manage the sequence in the Labouchère system?
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Answer: If you win, remove the first and last numbers; if you lose, add that amount to the end of the sequence. Modify the sequence this way to reach your target profit.
3. What should I do if consecutive losses occur?
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Answer: Betting amounts can increase rapidly during consecutive losses. To prevent fund depletion, set a fund limit, and if consecutive losses continue, it’s advisable to stop or adjust the system.
4. What games are suitable for the Labouchère system?
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Answer: It is useful in games with 2x payouts. Example: Applicable in Baccarat, Roulette, Blackjack, etc.
5. Does the Labouchère system guarantee 100% stable profit?
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Answer: No, it does not guarantee 100% profit due to consecutive losses or casino betting limits. It is important to set fund limits and manage risk.
“The purpose of this article is to explain game structures and statistical elements, not to encourage actual participation.”


