Read any article relating to poker strategy and it’s highly likely that you’ll encounter the term “betting patterns”. To beat a poker game, it is essential to take on board as much information as possible in order to make informed decisions, and studying your opponents and the manner of their bets is a huge part of that.
What exactly though, should we be looking for? When we find it, how can we use the information to increase our bankroll? Here are some commonly observed betting patterns at the poker table and how to take advantage of them:
Continuation Bets: Many players habitually fire out continuation bets after a pre-flop raise, regardless of the actual texture of the flop. It is definitely a value play to flat call pre-flop with a premium hand when in position, in order to let them make the inevitable post-flop bet, at which point you can raise. Inexperienced poker players often overbet the pot on the flop, in an attempt to buy it, which is even better. It is usually worth playing a wide range of hands in position against that type of player, in the hope of flopping a big hand.
Draws: A common sight at both real-life and online poker tables, is aggressively played draws. If you spot a player who continually bets on the come, be sure to take advantage by raising heavily with any pair or better. Some players are keen to call without the correct pot odds when drawing and if you find one, be sure to bet around the size of the pot when you think they have an incomplete hand. Forcing opponents to make incorrect plays is critical to winning at poker in the long run.
Bets Related To Hand Strength: Believe it or not, lots of poker players size their bets according to how strong their hand is. Once you identify that particular betting pattern, playing the player is relatively straightforward. Similarly, many players bet with a hand and check without one. Sometimes, poker is a simple game, overcomplicated by us players.
Blinds: Many weaker players will fail to defend their blinds and you should raise them often, taking care when they choose to play back at you. Some poker players go too far to the other extreme, defending their blinds at all costs. Make sure to wait for a hand against these players, betting bigger than usual.
It is worth pointing out that something happening once or twice does not constitute a betting pattern. If you observe something three, four or even five times, then it is safer to assume these are patterns. Remember also, to vary your own betting patterns, in order to keep your opponents from getting a read.
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