Pot Odds

'Pot Odds' in poker refers to the relationship between the size of the pot and the cost of a contemplated call.

What are Pot Odds in Poker?

In poker, 'Pot Odds' are used to determine whether a call is profitable in the long run. They are calculated by comparing the current size of the pot to the cost of a contemplated call. If the potential payout from the pot is greater than the cost of the call, the pot odds are favorable.

Understanding Pot Odds

Pot Odds are often expressed as a ratio (e.g., 3 to 1) or as a percentage. To calculate pot odds as a ratio, you compare the current size of the pot to the cost of your potential call. To calculate pot odds as a percentage, you divide the cost of your call by the total size of the pot (including your call).

Pot Odds in Poker

Pot Odds are a fundamental part of poker strategy and are used in combination with hand odds (the odds of completing your hand) to determine whether a call is profitable. If the hand odds are better than the pot odds, it's profitable to make the call.

Example of "Pot Odds"

For instance, if the pot is $100 and the cost of a call is $20, the pot odds are 5 to 1. This means you're risking $20 to win $100, which can be profitable if the odds of completing your hand are better than 5 to 1.

• "The pot odds were favorable, so he decided to make the call."
• "Despite having a weak hand, the pot odds justified a call."
• "She calculated the pot odds before deciding to fold her hand."

Pot Odds in Poker FAQs