What are pot odds?

“Pot Odds” represent the ratio of cash that is already in the pot to the amount you’d need to bet to remain in the hand. If the pot contains $60, and you would need to bet $6 to stay in the hand, the pot odds are 60 to 6, or 10 to 1.

Why are pot odds important?

Pot odds are effectively a financial tool that will let you make smart money moves at the tables.  When you use pot odds as part of your poker strategy, you’ll be more likely to win.  You’ll love being in the winner’s circle, even when playing for play money.

Imagine that you are seated at a table with a mediocre hand.  With cards still up for grabs, it might not be too late to turn your hand around.  Pot odds can let you know if remaining in the hand is worth your while.   Let’s say there are four cards on the board and the odds of completing your flush on the river are roughly 5 to 1.  To make betting worthwhile, there should be at least fives times your bet amount in the pot.  If the bet is $4 then there should be at least $20 in the pot to justify calling.

Now, suppose there were $48 in the pot in the example above. The odds of landing the diamond to complete your flush were 5 to 1. The pot would pay you 12 to 1 on your bet. That means calling the bet is the right decision.  While you may not land your diamond, over time sticking to the odds is always advantageous.

Another place to use pot odds is after the river, when the final bet comes to you. If the pot holds $80, and the bet in front of you is $8, pot odds will help you make your decision. The pot is giving you ten to one odds ($80 against your $8 bet) in this case. Even if you feel your opponent holds the better hand, the real question is whether he’s ten times more likely to have a better hand. If you think he is more than ten times likely to have a better hand, then fold. If not, call the bet.

Once you’ve mastered pot odds, you’ll not only be able to quickly make a decision whenever you find yourself on the fence, but you’ll also make the right decision more often.