Poker Actions
Basic Strategies
Betting / Raising / Re-raising / Check-raising
When you come to the poker table, whether it be live or online players may bet, fold or check. The decision as to what you do should be influenced by numerous factors.
A player should bet a hand they consider being "in front" of other players. If they believe their hand to be far superior to anybody else's hand they may consider checking to dupe the opponent into raising, to steal the pot. Checking is a risky option as you are allowing your opponent to effectively see a free card, if they check behind you.
Players in late position have the ability to raise more often, as they are late to act, they can raise when the table checks to them, thus giving players in late position a distinct advantage over other poker players.
A re-raise is when somebody raises you and then you raise them further. This is normally done when you think you have a stronger hand then your opponent, but may also be used as a bluff. If you think your opponent is bluffing you a re-raise is perfect, as it puts pressure on your opponent to make another decision.
The check-raise is a two part move, which normally shows great strength. If you hold a strong hand, a check-raise is perfect as it allows your opponent to pile more chips into the pot. The action goes as follows, you check, they raise you, thinking you are showing weakness and then you re-raise their initial raise. This is slightly different to a re-raise, as it is a two-stage move.
It is best to call or check when you have a drawing hand. A drawing hand is a hand that is incomplete but could potentially be very good, if they "hit" the card they need. For example a player with 2 diamonds in his hand, and 2 diamonds coming on the flop, this is a prime example when a check or small call is worth doing, as if you see another diamond you will hold a flush, which is a strong hand in Texas Hold'em.
A fold is best when you think you have no options to make a strong hand, or if you think that even if you "hit" a draw your hand will still remain beaten.
Ready to play free poker online?
Here is a selection of poker rooms to choose from. These four poker rooms are our most recommended poker rooms, but if you prefer to play somewhere else, we recommend that you have a look at our entire selection of online poker rooms.
