The Labouchere Betting System, also known as the “Cancellation System” or the “Split Martingale,” is a popular betting system that is used in a variety of casino games, including roulette, craps, and blackjack. This system is based on a mathematical progression that is designed to help players increase their chances of winning while minimizing their potential losses. In this article, we will discuss the origins of the Labouchere Betting System, how it works, what casino games it is best suited for, and provide examples of how to use it.
Origins of the Labouchere Betting System
The Labouchere Betting System was first developed by Henry Du Pré Labouchère, a British politician and gambler, in the late 19th century. Labouchère was a well-known figure in the gambling circles of his time, and he is said to have used his system to great success in various casino games. The system was first described in print in his book, “The Theory of Gambling and Statistical Logic,” which was published in 1911.
How the Labouchere System Works
The Labouchere Betting System is based on a mathematical progression that is designed to help players increase their chances of winning while minimizing their potential losses. The system works by using a sequence of numbers, which are chosen by the player at the start of the game. The player then places a bet that is equal to the sum of the first and last numbers in the sequence. If the bet is successful, the player removes the first and last numbers from the sequence and continues with the next bet. If the bet is not successful, the player adds the amount of the bet to the end of the sequence and continues with the next bet.
For example, let’s say that a player starts with the sequence 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and places a bet of £6 (the sum of the first and last numbers in the sequence). If the bet is successful, the player removes the first and last numbers from the sequence (1 and 5) and continues with the next bet, which would be for £6 (the sum of the new first and last numbers in the sequence, 2 and 4). If the bet is not successful, the player would add £6 to the end of the sequence and continue with the next bet, which would be for £8 (the sum of the new first and last numbers in the sequence, 2, 3, 4, 6).
Suitable Casino Games for the Labouchere Betting System
The Labouchere Betting System is best suited for games that have a relatively low house edge, such as roulette and craps. In roulette, players can use the system to place even-money bets, such as red or black or odd or even. In craps, players can use the system to place bets on the pass or don’t pass line. The system can also be used in blackjack, but it is not as effective in this game due to the higher house edge.
Examples of Using the Labouchere Betting System
Here are two examples of how to use the Labouchere Betting System in a game of roulette:
Labouchere System Example 1:
- Start with the sequence 1, 2, 3
- Place a bet of £4 (the sum of the first and last numbers in the sequence) on red
- If the bet is successful, remove the first and last numbers from the sequence (1 and 3) and continue with the next bet, which would be for £2 (the sum of the new first and last numbers in the sequence, 2)
- If the bet is not successful, add £2 to the end of the sequence and continue with the next bet, which would be for £4 (the sum of the new first and last numbers in the sequence, 2, 2)
Labouchere System Example 2:
- Start with the sequence 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
- Place a bet of £6 (the sum of the first and last numbers in the sequence) on black
- If the bet is successful, remove the first and last numbers from the sequence (1 and 5) and continue with the next bet, which would be for £6 (the sum of the new first and last numbers in the sequence, 2, 4)
- If the bet is not successful, add £6 to the end of the sequence and continue with the next bet, which would be for £8 (the sum of the new first and last numbers in the sequence 2, 3, 4, 6)
As you can see from these examples, the Labouchere Betting System can help players increase their chances of winning while minimizing their potential losses. However, it is important to keep in mind that no betting system can guarantee a win.
Conclusion
The Labouchere Betting System is a popular betting strategy that is based on a mathematical progression that is designed to help players increase their chances of winning while minimizing their potential losses. The system is best suited for games that have a relatively low house edge, such as roulette and craps, and can be used to place even-money bets or bets on the pass or don’t pass line. While the Labouchere Betting System can be a useful tool for players, it is important for players to be aware that the betting system does not change the fact that the casino has the house edge.
