Learn Texas Holdem

In no limit Texas hold'em, being able to make a nice value bet is a positive enhancement of your game. In limit Texas hold'em poker, being able to successfully value bet is absolutely crucial to your success. Since there is a fixed amount of bets in limit hold'em, your chances of a positive outcome rest solely on the ability to win an extra bet when you have the best of it and save a bet when you don't. Value betting is a key component of this exercise.

When Should You Value Bet in Limit Hold'em Poker?

Value bets usually occur on the river, when all the cards are out and you have a good idea where you stand. You should value bet if you've been betting with what you are confident is the best hand all the way. Value betting is also an option if a card comes on the river that you are pretty sure gives you the best hand.

Poker Value Betting Example 1

For example, you have AK and the board runs out Ad 7s 4h 3h 9h. You bet and are flat called by one player on the flop and turn. Your decision will be based on circumstances of course, but often you will have no reason to believe that your AK is not good.

Your opponent will often have an A with a weaker kicker or even middle pair. Sometimes he will make two pair but this is unlikely enough to merit a bet, and you cannot give him credit for a flush if he called the flop with nothing but backdoor hearts.

Poker Value Betting Example 2

Similarly, let's say you are first to act holding 8d 9d on a board of Ac 6d 3d Kh 4d. You have check called an opponent on the flop and turn. It's a good idea for you to bet out for value on the river with your flush. If you checked, your opponent will probably see the flush possibility and check behind, costing you a bet. Even if he bets and you raise, he will probably fold, winning you nothing extra. On the other hand, if you bet out, he may feel forced to call with a weaker hand because of the pot odds.

Value betting is a powerful and necessary weapon in limit hold'em. Master it if you wish to be successful at this variation of poker.