Some poker players hate the prospect of meticulously using mathematics in order to make plays at the table. This is why some people turn to strictly playing tournaments since they can get away with not using math-based strategy such as pot odds and implied odds a little more.
However, it’s essential that cash game players know their odds and statistics since they’re dealing with a different set of circumstances. And one of the most important situations you’ll come across in cash games is whether or not you’ll make your hand. Here is a look at some pre-flop situations that will help you get a better idea of what your chances are of making a hand.
High Pair vs. Low Pair
While the numbers vary somewhat depending on what high pair is going against what low pair, the high pair is going to win about 80% of the time. Being suited aside, the low hand needs to hit a set or else the high hand is going to walk away the winner.
Pair vs. Higher Connectors
Having almost any kind of pair is slightly preferable to holding high connectors like K-Q or J-10. In fact, if you held pocket 10’s you’re going to beat A-K around 55% of the time. But these situations are almost coin flips because there are a lot of options available for hands like A-K and K-Q to beat a lower hand.
Two High Cards vs. Two Low Cards
This is again another situation where one player is dominated, but still has a chance. In the instance of A-K vs. J-T, the person holding A-K will win about 65% of the time.
High Card/Low Card vs. Two Cards In-Between
These situations aren’t as easy to call as some of the others since one person has the high card while the other has multiple options with the two in-between cards. But more times than not, a hand featuring something like A-6 vs. Q-J will see the A-6 win about 55% of the time.
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