Equity

Equity in poker refers to a player's expected share of the pot, given the current situation in the hand. This term is widely used in all forms of poker, and understanding it is key to making informed betting decisions.

Understanding Equity

In poker, equity refers to the expected value a player has in a particular hand at any given moment. It's a way of assessing how likely a player is to win the hand based on the current cards. Equity is usually expressed as a percentage, with 100% equity meaning a guaranteed win and 0% equity meaning no chance of winning.

Impact of Equity on Game Strategy

Understanding and calculating equity can significantly influence a player's decision-making process in a poker game. It helps determine whether a call, fold, or raise is the most profitable action in the long run. Players who accurately calculate their equity and make decisions based on it are more likely to make profitable plays over time.

Example of "Equity"

For example, if you're playing Texas Hold'em and after the flop you have a flush draw, you have about a 35% equity to win the hand by the river, assuming your opponent does not hold cards that could improve their hand. This equity can influence whether you decide to call a bet, raise, or fold.

• "With his flush draw, John knew he had sufficient equity to call his opponent's bet."
• "Mary calculated her hand's equity and decided that folding was the best option."
• "Despite having low equity in the hand, Tom decided to bluff and bet aggressively."