Betting Odds and Ends

BLIND BETS

Blinds are a common feature in texas holdem and are a way to get the betting in a game. Blinds, as the name implies, are blind bets placed by the first two players to the dealer’s left before the players even look at their pocket cards. they function the same way as antes by making players invest in the game. The “small blind ”, is placed by the player directly to the dealer’s left and is usually smaller than the established minimum bet, but it can be the same. The player seated two places to the left of the dealer places the “big blind,” which is usually double the amount of the small blind. The betting then starts with the player to the left of the bigs blind and he or she can simply call the big blind, raise, or fold. Once the bet returns to the players who threw the blinds, they have the option of raising, which is known as a “live blind.”

Sometimes emotions play a role in betting. Players who have been losing might start making wild bets to recoup their losses. Likewise, expert poker players who have been winning tend to get a little sloppy, figuring they’re already ahead and can afford to lose a little. If you can pick up on these shifts and avoid falling into the same traps, you stand to win a few extra pots.

There has always been some debate as to whether check-raising should be allowed in home poker games. Some feel it creates a less-than-friendly atmosphere. Check-raising is when a player, usually in an early position at the table, checks and then raises when the bet returns to him. Because checking usually indicates that you are uncertain of the value of your hand, some consider check-raising a mean-spirited attempt at bluffing to get more cash out of your fellow players. However, other players contend that check-raising is a perfectly legitimate poker tactic and its use should never be questioned.
When playing poker, particularly if you’re at a casino, bet whatever you’re comfortable with. You should go into any poker situation with confidence but recognize the cards might not go your way. Always think about how much money you are willing to lose. Set limits for yourself and be prepared to walk away from a table if things are not working out. Losing streaks are part of poker, but don’t want to find yourself in a situation where you are desperate to win back your losses. This will only lead to bad betting and unsound online poker decisions.