Labouchère Strategy
Cross numbers off a list: bet the sum of the ends until the line clears.
Best for: Disciplined players who enjoy structured bookkeeping on even-money bets
Overview
Labouchère (cancellation) starts with a written list of positive numbers that sum to your target profit — for example 1-2-3-4 aiming for 10 units.
Each bet equals the first number plus the last number on the list. A win crosses those two numbers off. A loss appends the amount just lost to the end of the list.
When the list is empty, the session target is achieved. When the list grows, stakes and stress escalate quickly — which is why list design is as important as the rule itself.
Visual progression
How it works
- Write a short line of units (keep early lists modest).
- Bet (first + last) units on an even-money outcome.
- Win → delete first and last numbers.
- Loss → write the lost stake amount at the end of the line.
- If only one number remains, bet that single number.
- Stop if the required bet exceeds table max or bankroll rules.
List 1-2-3 (target 6 units)
- Bet 1+3=4 — lose → list becomes 1-2-3-4
- Bet 1+4=5 — win → cross 1 and 4 → list 2-3
- Bet 2+3=5 — win → list empty, target booked
- A different order of wins/losses yields different peak stakes.
Pros
- Flexible target profit via the opening list
- Satisfying structure for players who like tracking
- Can clear with mixed win rates if stakes stay available
Cons
- Bookkeeping errors are common mid-session
- Losing runs lengthen the list and inflate bets fast
- Complex compared with flat betting or simple Paroli
FAQ
What opening list is “best”?
There is no best list. Shorter, smaller lists reduce blow-up risk; aggressive lists chase larger targets with steeper drawdowns.