Poker Odds

Calculating poker odds may seem a daunting task for novice poker players. But, as this page will show, calculating poker odds is simple mathematics. If you can add, subtract and divide, you're well on your way to mastering poker odds!

Why are poker odds so important?

Poker odds should dictate every action that you take during a poker game, other aspects (psychology, tells etc) are important, but only in the sense that they contribute to making the mathematical decisions easier. Some people play poker solely with their instinct, oblivious to the odds. World Class poker players, calculate odds and then develop the instincts.

What's the best way to learn to calculate poker odds?

Practice makes permanent. When your in a hand, take your time, think about the situation and what the odds dictate you should probably do. After a while, calculating poker odds, especially pot odds will come naturally.

Probably the best and most complete resource for poker odds on the internet is Mike Caro's Poker University website. This covers many varieties of poker games. Here's another good website giving great examples of Texas Hold'em poker odds. If you were the recipient of a bad beat or made a marginal call, check out CardPlayer's poker odds calculator. For a basic beginner-level article about odds in Texas Hold'em, check out calculating pots odds.

Hopefully that helps in your quest to master the science of poker odds!