Quick answer
The letter U bingo pattern is the full B column, the full O column and the full bottom row, forming a U that opens at the top. It covers 13 squares and needs 13 numbers, since the free space isn't on it. One card has a 4.1% chance by call 60, and with 500 cards in play the first U usually comes around call 50.
Which squares make the letter U?
Three sides of the card’s border, open at the top:
- Left side: the whole B column
- Right side: the whole O column
- Bottom: I5, N5, G5
13 squares, 13 numbers. Ten of the 13 come from the two outer columns, so the U is mostly a “B and O” game. The free space sits in the open middle and doesn’t help.
Letter U odds by call
Exact single-card figures:
| Calls made | Chance one card has the U |
|---|---|
| 40 | 0.01% |
| 50 | 0.28% |
| 60 | 4.1% |
| 70 | 37% |
Half of single cards finish by call 72. In a room, our simulation puts the first U at about call 57 with 50 cards and call 50 with 500 cards.
A U is a letter C turned a quarter turn, so a crazy U and a crazy C are the same game: four ways to win, an 11% single-card chance by call 60, and a first winner near call 45 in a 500-card room.
Tips for players
- Count your B and O marks. If both outer columns are nearly full, you’re down to three bottom-row numbers.
- Only the bottom row matters in I, N and G. An I number in row 2 doesn’t help, however good it looks.
- Keep the top row in mind for a frame. Add the top row and the U becomes the full outside edge.
Tips for callers and hosts
The U makes a good two-stage game with the outside edge. Pay a prize for the U, then keep going on the same card for the frame, which needs only three more numbers (I1, N1 and G1).
The horseshoe name makes it a good fit for country-western nights, Kentucky Derby parties or anything with a “lucky” theme. Display it on the board, since some halls draw the horseshoe opening downward.
Variations
- Crazy U: opening up, down, left or right (the same as a crazy C).
- Upside-down horseshoe: the top row with the B and O columns.
- Outside edge: the U plus the top row. See the outside edge.
Frequently asked questions
What numbers make a U in bingo?
All five B numbers (1–15), all five O numbers (61–75), and the I, N and G numbers in the bottom row. That's 13 numbers.
Does the letter U use the free space?
No. The U runs along three edges of the card and the free space is in the center, inside the U.
Is a U the same as a horseshoe in bingo?
Many halls use the names interchangeably for this three-sided shape, though some draw the horseshoe upside down, opening toward the bottom. Check the board.
Keep reading
Letter C Bingo Pattern: Rules, Odds & Tips
The letter C bingo pattern is the top row, bottom row and B column: 13 squares and 13 numbers. See the exact layout, odds by call and crazy C rules.
Outside Edge Bingo Pattern (Picture Frame): Rules, Odds & Tips
Outside edge bingo, or picture frame, covers all 16 border squares of the card. See exact odds by call, how long it takes, and where it fits in a session.
Letter H Bingo Pattern: Rules, Odds & Tips
The letter H bingo pattern is the B and O columns joined by the middle row: 13 squares, 12 numbers. See the exact layout, odds by call and tips.
Bingo Patterns
Every bingo pattern with a picture, rules and how many numbers you need.