Betting Unit
The base amount of money used as the standard bet size. All betting systems express progression in multiples of the betting unit. For example, if your unit is $10, a "2-unit bet" would be $20.
Streaks and Hot/Cold Tables
Sequences of consecutive wins or losses. While streaks occur naturally in random events, the perception that streaks indicate a pattern that can be exploited is a common misconception. Each outcome remains independent regardless of previous results.
Risk of Ruin
The mathematical probability of losing your entire bankroll before achieving your profit goal. This increases with aggressive betting systems and decreases with conservative bankroll management and unit sizing.
Kelly Criterion
A mathematical formula for determining optimal bet sizing based on win probability and payout odds. It aims to maximize long-term growth while managing risk, though it requires accurate probability estimates.
Session and Long-Term Play
A session is a limited gambling period with defined parameters. Long-term play examines results across many sessions. Betting systems may show apparent success in short sessions but fail to overcome house edge over extended play.