A patent bet gives you 7 chances to win from just 3 picks: 3 singles, 3 doubles, and 1 treble. Even one winner gets you a return. You don’t need to get them all right to get something back.
A patent bet gives you 7 chances to win from just 3 picks—3 singles, 3 doubles, and 1 treble. Even one winner gets you a return. You don’t need to get them all right to get something back.
Understanding the Patent Bet
Patent bets are a clever way to add coverage and flexibility to your betting strategy. With just three selections, you can spread your chances across seven different outcomes. They work well in both football and horse racing, and can turn even one correct pick into a return. Below, we’ll break down how patent bets work, explore real-life examples, and share tools and tips to help you use them effectively.
How a Patent Bet Works
A Patent bet covers three selections by placing seven individual bets:
- 3 singles (one on each selection)
- 3 doubles (each pairing of two selections)
- 1 treble (all three combined)
This structure means you only need one selection to win and receive a return, although the more winners you have, the larger the payout. It’s a simple way to spread risk while maintaining profit potential.
Breakdown of the 7 Bets
Here’s what your patent bet would include if you’re betting on Match A, B, and C:
- Single Bet on Match A
- Single Bet on Match B
- Single Bet on Match C
- Double Bet on Matches A and B
- Double Bet on Matches A and C
- Double Bet on Matches B and C
- Treble Bet on Matches A, B, and C
This structure creates a safety net because even if only one of your selections wins, you still receive a return from that single winning bet. This blend of coverage and potential for profit makes a patent bet appealing to many bettors.
How Different Outcomes Affect a Patent Bet
The flowchart below shows what kind of returns you might get depending on how many of your three selections win. Even one winning pick will bring back a return, but the more winners you have, the higher the total payout. This helps explain why many bettors use patent bets to spread risk while keeping upside potential.
Patent Bet Examples
The following examples will show you how a patent bet plays out in real sports scenarios. From football matches to horse racing, these help you see exactly what kind of returns you might expect depending on how many selections win.
Football Example
Suppose you place a ÂŁ1 patent bet on the following football match outcomes:
- Match A: Manchester United to win at 2.0 odds
- Match B: Liverpool to win at 3.0 odds
- Match C: Arsenal to win at 4.0 odds
Your total stake is £7 (£1 per bet × 7 bets). Here’s how your potential returns would look:
- If only Match A wins, you receive ÂŁ2 from the single bet on Manchester United
- If Matches A and B win, you receive ÂŁ2 (single on A) + ÂŁ3 (single on B) + ÂŁ6 (double AĂ—B) = ÂŁ11
- If all three win, you receive ÂŁ2 (A) + ÂŁ3 (B) + ÂŁ4 (C) + ÂŁ6 (AĂ—B) + ÂŁ8 (AĂ—C) + ÂŁ12 (BĂ—C) + ÂŁ24 (AĂ—BĂ—C) = ÂŁ59
Horse Racing Example
Imagine you pick three horses across three different races:
- Race 1: Thunderstorm at 5/1 → Decimal: 6.0
- Race 2: Silver Arrow at 3/1 → Decimal: 4.0
- Race 3: Golden Flash at 4/1 → Decimal: 5.0
Your total stake is ÂŁ7 (ÂŁ1 per bet Ă— 7 combinations).
âś… If only Thunderstorm wins:
Single on Thunderstorm: ÂŁ1 Ă— 6.0 = ÂŁ6.00
Total return: ÂŁ6.00
âś… If Thunderstorm and Silver Arrow win:
Single on Thunderstorm: ÂŁ6.00
Single on Silver Arrow: ÂŁ4.00
Double (Thunderstorm Ă— Silver Arrow):
6.0 Ă— 4.0 = ÂŁ24.00
Total return: ÂŁ6 + ÂŁ4 + ÂŁ24 = ÂŁ34.00
âś… If all three horses win:
Singles:
- Thunderstorm: ÂŁ6.00
- Silver Arrow: ÂŁ4.00
- Golden Flash: ÂŁ5.00
Doubles:
- Thunderstorm Ă— Silver Arrow: 6.0 Ă— 4.0 = ÂŁ24.00
- Thunderstorm Ă— Golden Flash: 6.0 Ă— 5.0 = ÂŁ30.00
- Silver Arrow Ă— Golden Flash: 4.0 Ă— 5.0 = ÂŁ20.00
Treble:
- 6.0 Ă— 4.0 Ă— 5.0 = ÂŁ120.00
Total return:
ÂŁ6 + ÂŁ4 + ÂŁ5 + ÂŁ24 + ÂŁ30 + ÂŁ20 + ÂŁ120 = ÂŁ209.00
Real-World Use Case
Professional racing writer and punter Seymour Biz bets across all UK meetings, not just the big-name festivals. He often turns to patent bets when he has three runners he likes but isn’t equally confident in all of them.
As a bettor, sometimes you like three horses but aren’t convinced they’ll all land. A patent gives you that bit of breathing room. If just two come in, you’re still looking at a tidy return, whereas a straight treble would’ve left you with nothing.
This kind of flexible approach is a key reason why seasoned punters use patent bets. It’s not just about chasing a big win; it’s about smart staking and keeping the door open to profit.
Try the Patent Bet Calculator
Try the calculator below to see how much you could win from your patent bet. Just enter the odds for each selection and your stake, and we’ll do the maths for you.
Patent Bet Calculator
How to Place a Patent Bet
Placing a patent bet may seem complex at first, but once you break it down, it’s quite straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate through the process:
Selection of Events
The first step is to choose three different events or outcomes you want to bet on. These can be from the same sport or different sports altogether. Make sure these are selections you feel confident about.
Visit Your Betting Site
Log in to your preferred betting platform. If you’re new to betting, choose a user-friendly site with good reviews.
Navigate to the Events
Find the events you’ve chosen on the betting site. This usually involves browsing the sports sections and finding the specific matches or outcomes.
Choosing the Bet Type
Once you’ve selected the individual outcomes, consider placing a patent bet. This might be under a special bets section or listed among other multi-bet options like doubles or trebles.
Enter Your Patent Bet Stake
You’ll need to enter a stake for the patent bet. Remember, your stake applies to each of the seven bets individually. For example, if you stake £1, your total bet will be £7. It’s important to understand that this outlay increases your exposure, but it also gives you multiple chances of winning. Even if only one selection is correct, you’ll get a return. Use a stake you’re comfortable with, and consider that higher odds on one or two selections can turn modest wins into a profitable return.
Review Your Bet Selections
Double-check your choices and the total stake. Ensure everything is correct and as intended. This is important because once the patent bet is placed, it might not be possible to change or cancel it.
Place Your Patent Bet
If you’re satisfied with your selections and the total stake, confirm and place your patent bet. Once the bet is placed, the betting site will confirm.
Before placing any bet, it’s essential to ensure that your chosen bookmaker is licensed and regulated by the UK Gambling Commission. The UKGC oversees all legal betting operations in Britain and ensures fairness and consumer protection in gambling practices. You can verify a bookmaker’s status on the official UKGC website.
For those in Ireland, it’s advisable to consult the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) for the latest regulations and guidelines on betting activities. Staying informed of their guidance will help ensure your betting remains within legal and ethical bounds.
Follow the Events
Now that your bet is live, you can follow the events as they unfold. Remember, with a patent bet, you have multiple chances to win, so even if one selection fails, you still have other opportunities to secure a return.
Why Choose a Patent Bet?
Patent bets offer several advantages that appeal to many bettors, from beginners to seasoned punters. Understanding these benefits can help you decide whether this betting strategy aligns with your goals and risk tolerance. Here are the key advantages:
Multiple Chances to Win Your Bet
One of the most significant benefits of a patent bet is the multiple opportunities it provides to secure a return on investment. Since the patent bet is spread over seven different wagers, even if just one of your selections wins, you’ll receive a payout for that single bet. This feature makes patent bets less risky than an accumulator, where all selections must win.
Profit Potential from Fewer Selections
While accumulators require all selections to win for a return, patent bets can yield profit with just two or even one winning selection, depending on the odds. This can be particularly appealing when betting on outcomes with higher odds, as a single win can cover the total stake or even result in profit.
Bet Flexibility and Diversification
Patent bets allow for a diverse betting strategy. You can mix favourites with long shots, spreading the risk across different events and outcomes. This flexibility makes patent bets suitable for various betting styles and preferences.
For added peace of mind, consider using operators that follow the responsible gambling standards set by the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA). These standards promote fair play, data protection, and ethical marketing across the European betting industry.
Ideal for Experimenting with Different Markets
If you’re looking to explore new sports or markets, a patent bet can be an excellent way to test the waters without committing much money to each bet. Since your stake is divided across multiple bets, you can afford to experiment while keeping potential losses in check.
Emotional and Financial Cushioning
Knowing that not all your selections need to win to achieve a return can provide a sense of security and reduce the stress associated with betting. This cushioning effect can make your betting experience more enjoyable and less stressful, especially during close games or matches.
Increased Engagement
With bets placed on different events, you’ll likely find yourself more engaged and interested in a broader range of sports or competitions than you might otherwise be. This can enhance the betting and viewing experience, making it more entertaining and engaging.
Potential Drawbacks of a Patent Bet
While patent bets offer flexibility and multiple ways to win, they also come with a few downsides worth considering. Let’s look at the key drawbacks before you place your next bet.
Increased Initial Outlay
One significant drawback of a patent bet is the increased initial cost. Since the bet encompasses seven different wagers, your total stake is seven times what you would place on a single bet. This higher outlay might not suit everyone, especially those on a tight budget or bettors who prefer to minimise their financial exposure.
Lower Returns for Single Wins
While the structure of a patent bet increases the chances of getting some return, the payouts for individual wins (mainly if they are on the favourites) can be modest. If only one of your selections wins, the return may not cover the total stake you’ve placed on the seven bets. This aspect can be disappointing, especially if you expect larger profits from your betting activities.
Bet Complexity for Beginners
The concept and structure of a patent bet can be confusing for newcomers to the world of betting. Understanding how seven bets work together from three selections might be daunting and could lead to misunderstandings or incorrect bets. This complexity can detract from the betting experience for those unfamiliar with various bet types.
If you ever encounter a dispute with a betting operator, the Independent Betting Adjudication Service (IBAS) can serve as a neutral third party to help resolve issues. IBAS handles complaints fairly and independently, and its service is provided free of charge to customers.
Diluted Winnings
Because the patent bet is spread out over several different bets, the total winnings can be diluted compared to a successful accumulator bet where all selections win. While spreading risk is an advantage, it also means that the explosive potential of an accumulator is not present. Bettors looking for the thrill of a large payout from a small stake might find patent bets less satisfying.
Strategies for Patent Bet Selection
To get the most out of a patent bet, it helps to follow a clear strategy. Here are some smart ways to pick your selections and manage your stake effectively.
Selective Betting
When placing a bet on a patent, being selective about the events or outcomes you choose is crucial. Look for selections where you feel confident, but also consider the odds. Mixing favourites with a couple of longer shots can balance the risk and potential return. Avoid picking outcomes based solely on favourites, which can lead to lower returns.
Research and Analysis
Thorough research and analysis of each selection are vital. Understand the form, conditions, and other relevant factors influencing the outcome. The more informed your choices are, the better your chances of success with a patent bet.
Bankroll Management
Due to the higher stake requirement, effective bankroll management is essential for patent betting. Allocate only a portion of your betting funds to patent bets and ensure this aligns with your overall betting strategy. Don’t put all your money into one bet, and be mindful of how patent betting fits into your broader betting activities.
Timing Your Bets
Consider the timing of your patent bet, especially in sports where conditions can change rapidly. Placing your bets at the right time, after you’ve gathered all necessary information but before odds potentially drop, can significantly impact your potential returns.
Patent Bet Risk Profile Matrix
Understanding your betting style can help you make smarter choices when placing a patent bet. The Patent Bet Risk Profile Matrix below shows how your selections might shift depending on your approach: conservative, moderate, balanced, or aggressive.
Each profile has its strengths and suits different risk levels. Conservative bettors focus on safer, low-odds picks. Aggressive bettors seek higher odds with greater risks. Balanced bettors combine both strategies. Moderate bettors choose steady mid-range odds. Use this guide to match your selections with your comfort zone.
Sport-Specific Trends
While Patent bets are widely used in both horse racing and football, data from several tipster groups and forum discussions suggests they’re more profitable in racing. That’s partly because racing odds vary more and often present better value for each-way options, allowing bettors to build safer combinations. In contrast, football odds are typically shorter, which may lower the value of single wins unless you mix in a high-odds selection.
Success Tips for a Patent Bet
Start Small
If you’re new to patent betting, start with smaller stakes until you become comfortable with it. This approach minimises your risk while you learn and adapt your strategy.
Keep Records
Keep detailed records of your patent bets, outcomes, and profits or losses. Analysing your betting history can help you identify what works and what doesn’t, allowing you to refine your approach over time.
Stay Informed
Stay up-to-date with news and updates relevant to your selections. Injuries, weather changes, and other factors can dramatically affect outcomes. The more informed you are, the better your chances of making successful selections.
Be Patient and Disciplined
Patience and discipline are key to successful betting. Don’t chase losses or deviate from your strategy out of frustration or impatience. Successful betting requires a long-term perspective and consistent application of a well-thought-out strategy.
Evaluate Odds and Value
Always look for value in your bets. Even if a selection seems likely to win, poor odds may not make it a worthwhile addition to your patent bet. Assess the value offered by the odds in relation to the risk involved.
Before placing your next Patent bet, download and print this handy checklist to stay on track and avoid common mistakes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Patent Bets
1. Choosing Only Favourites
It might feel safe to pick three favourites, but if all the odds are low, even winning all three might not give you much profit. Try mixing in one selection with higher odds to boost your return.
2. Forgetting the Bet Costs £7
A £1 Patent actually means you’re placing seven bets, so it costs £7 in total. That adds up fast if you raise your stake. Always double-check how much you’re really spending.
3. Not Realising What Happens with a Void Bet
If one of your picks doesn’t run (like a non-runner in horse racing), it affects all the combinations that include it. You might get less back than expected. Always read your bookmaker’s rules.
4. Missing the Each-Way Option
If your picks are long shots, it can help to tick the each-way box. That way, you can get a payout even if your selection just places. Many forget to use this option when it could really help.
5. Not Doing Any Research
Picking names at random or based on gut feeling usually doesn’t end well. Take a few minutes to check the form, stats, or tips before you place your bet. A little research can go a long way.
Betting Bottom Line
A patent bet is a smart way to give yourself more chances of a return, even if not all your picks win. It costs a bit more to place, but that extra cost provides additional coverage. If you plan your selections carefully and keep a close eye on your stake, it can be a great option. Just stay sensible, don’t rush your bets, and use our handy checklist to avoid mistakes. Betting should be fun, so stay informed, stay smart, and enjoy the ride.
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