Texas Hold’em is a version of poker that has spread all over the world. It is a game exceeded in popularity by few other games. Understanding this game is not only an important part of popular culture, it is an important part of mastering an interesting and exciting game.
There are two things to know about winning hands in Texas Hold’em poker: what the winning hands are and when to play them.
Position is an important element of Texas Hold’em poker games. Where you are in relationship to the dealer can determine, in part, the success of a hand. This can have an effect on the hands which a player is dealt, both on the table and in the pocket.
The most important decision regarding position and winning hands is before the first betting round. This is the point when a player must decide whether to play or fold a hand. There are some things you should know to help you decide.
If you are in an early position in a Texas Hold’em poker game, these are the hands to bet on:
Pocket Aces
Pocket Kings
Suited Ace-King
Ace-King
Suited Ace-Queen
Suited King-Queen
Pocket Queens
Pocket Jacks
Pocket Tens
It is prudent to fold everything else. It is a good idea to raise on Pocket Aces, Pocket Kings and Suited Ace-King hands and only call on Suited Ace-Queen, Suited King-Queen, Pocket Queens, Pocket Jacks and Pocket Tens.
If you are in a middle betting position, the only act you need to worry about is calling. These are the hands to play:
Pocket Nines
Pocket Eights
Suited Ace-Jacks
Suited Ace-Tens
Suited Queen-Jacks
Ace-Queen
King-Queen
If you are in a late betting position, you should call the following hands:
Suited Ace and any other card
Suited King-Ten
Suited Queen-Ten
Suited Jack-Ten
Ace-Jack
Ace-Ten
Small Pocket Pairs
It takes a stronger hand to call a raise than it does to make one. If there is a raise before your turn, you should fold. It is reckless to bet again on a marginal hand.
It is just as important to know how to play a good hand as it is to recognize a good hand. This can separate mediocre poker players from great poker players. Even beginners can use this information to improve their game, win some money, or impress family and friends with their expert skills. So, get excited and do win some poker games.
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