The New No Limit Player's Guide to Position Play
The role that position plays in any Texas Holdem No Limit game simply cannot be overstated. The fact is that the value of the hands that you have will only be as effective if you utilize them in the proper position. For this reason, it is crucial that you know the facts.
There are, of course, usually ten players in a full ring No Limit game, and they all have respective places on the table, but the most essential that a new player needs to be aware of is the early position, meaning you are the first to act, and being on the button, whereby you are the last to make any bet, calls or raises.
These positions matter in Texas Holdem No Limit because they will determine how effective you can play your hands. When you are in early position, you are said to be playing under the gun, for a good number of reasons. Here you need to play tightly and selectively, because you will have no access to information concerning the other players.
For example, if you are holding a JJ under the gun, you may be tempted to make a bet, as it is a good hand. But you have no idea what the other players on the Poker table are holding. If you make a big bet and someone with a QQ makes a substantial raise, you are in trouble. Because the game is Texas Holdem No Limit, someone could easily go all in of course, as is what usually happens when someone holds AA pre flop.
The situation will be different when you are on the button in No Limit. If you had JJ and the other players checked, you will know that they do not have the high hands, so you can make a good bet here.
Also, there will be times during the game when they will check to you and you will be able to get the free card. Begin the last to act will allow you to size up your opponents, and thus have the option to go for a bluff or semi bluff.
Therefore when you are in early position, you should only play with AA, AK and KK. Holding these hands you can be confident about making a bet, or as some do, opting for a check raise.
When you are in late position, you can play with more cards, and use pocket pairs and connectors to bet. When on the button you will be able to exercise more freedom with your Texas Holdem No Limit strategies. By knowing and playing your position in a suitable way, you will elevate your game quickly.