Although it is not common knowledge, the best starting hands in poker come after the flop. Many players have a very narrow understanding of what the best starting hands are and how to achieve it. It’s only through the use of videos and illustrations that you can really learn the art of playing poker the right way.
The first card in any game is called the ante card and will often be a strong hand. An ace or two are usually referred to as a good start for the bet. The best starting hands in poker do not only come from betting with an ace but also include having a weak or no pair of cards and this may sometimes come on the flop. A jack can be considered the worst starting hand in poker because it is just a second or third hand and even this isn’t considered strong in terms of value.
Two weak hands on the flop can still show strong hands on the turn and sometimes will be played for the purpose of setting up a bet. Therefore the best starting hands in poker are often given as a result of betting with one weak hand or no pair, in the hope of getting the other two strong hands on the turn and finally some value and a big pot on the river. Playing strong hands on the turn is often a good way to get the pot raised and to make sure you win the pot.
Hands that have been calling recently may not be seen as a good starting hand in poker. Having a call in a strong hand on the flop is usually a sign that you will have weak hands later in the pot. In particular, if the turn comes after a tight hand such as a straight, it can leave you needing to come back with a strong hand, especially if it’s a small pot that you are in.
If you have tight hands in a pot then the best starting hands are when you have two strong hands that don’t have any weaker cards. These are always viewed as being the best bets when you consider your opponents will be left with a good strong hand.
A flat, flush or straight when called is not considered a good hand in poker because these do not have any value and so are rarely considered good bets. However, the chances of making a straight bet in a bet that you have not raised and in a bet that has no value is small. Playing tight and weak hands in a pot together is often a better strategy as it allows you to make a call and force your opponents to come out with a stronger hand.
After the flop in a hand that is weak or not bet on the turn it is time to raise all the bets and continue betting. By doing this you will be ensuring you take all the pots on the table before folding. With strong hands and a good understanding of how to play poker the best starting hands in poker may come after these betting moves.
When playing strong hands in a pot, it is important to understand the differences between aggressive and passive play. Playing hard against the house and hoping to convert your outs on the flop into wins is passive play to play with a lot of chips and preparing to pay in the long run is an aggressive strategy.