Several Texas Hold’em poker players are great pre-flop. They know their cards and odds of winning and know whether to play on or not. However, an equal amount of Texas Hold’em online poker players struggle with what move to make after the flop. They just don’t really know what to do because there are so numerous variables and possibilities. The following are a few tips on how to handle you post flop game.
Fit or Fold
Unless you start with a premium pair, you should have hit the flop and have a nice hand before you even consider playing further. Fit or fold is the mantra. Your pocket cards need to connect with the flop in some way. If you don’t have steady hands at the flop just fold and don’t bother playing post flop. You simply have to fold a lot of hands in Texas Hold’em poker. Again, if you don’t have a good hand, fold! It’s amazing how many people ignore this and keep playing on, pondering why they lose with a pair of 8’s.
Don’t Be Afraid
Being choosy about the hands you play in Texas Hold’em poker is crucial. Being aggressive when you do play a hand is just as crucial to playing strong poker. After entering a pot with good starting hands don’t be afraid to play the hand post flop. Play your cards strongly when you get quality cards and hit the flop. The next time you start with good cards and do hit the flop, don’t be afraid to play aggressively. Play strong, bet solidly, don’t back down and go for the jugular.
Playing Small Pairs
Playing small pairs pre-flop is a viable strategy in some situations. As long as the price tag isn’t too high it’s alright to see the flop with these hole cards. You have the potential to win a lot of money with these cards if you do hit the flop. Small pairs are easy to play after the flop. If you don’t flop trips, abandon the game if someone bets anything. If it’s a round of checks you’ll have another punt, but again if you don’t hit trips, fold. Don’t get sucked into thinking a small pair is going to win it for you. A small trip can definitely take people by surprise though.
As you play more and more Texas Hold’em you’ll find that your post flop game gets a lot better.
Happy playing!