A losing-streak protocol

Losing streaks are normal. What you do during one decides how much it costs.

First, the math. Example only: a bettor who wins 55% of the time will still hit five or more losses in a row in about two of every three 100-bet stretches. A cold run does not prove anything is broken.

What to do, in order:

1. Keep the unit the same. Do not raise it to win money back.

2. No make-up bets. No extra games added to the card.

3. Check the process, not the score. Were your prices at or better than your limit? Did they beat the close?

4. If the prices were good, change nothing. That is variance.

5. If they were not, fix that. Tighten the price limit or pass more often.

6. Take a slate off if you are angry or anxious. The games will be there tomorrow.

Our own rule: if we are down 10u in a week, the next slate begins with a review before any new play.

Where it shows up in our plays: sizes do not grow after losing days, and losses stay in the posted record.

What cuts against it: a protocol cannot make a streak end sooner. It only keeps you from making it worse.

If a losing run has you betting money you need, or betting to feel better, stop. Help is free and confidential at 1-800-GAMBLER.

Stay in the game.

Education only, not a guarantee. Bet only what you can afford to lose. 1-800-GAMBLER.