Over Valuing Poker Hands
A very important part of any Poker game is not just knowing the value of a hand but also learning not to over value or over play it. This is something that a lot of players do not realize, and end up paying a stiff price.
For instance, because pocket pairs are very good in No Limit, players tend to play it even in situations that it is not suitable in such as tourneys. Using pocket pairs in a No Limit tournament is a poor Poker strategy If you are in early position and raise with a 77, you have no idea what kind of hands that they have.
If you get re-raised, then it usually becomes an all in situation, as the amount involved is such that you feel committed to the pot. The point is that you should never raise pocket pairs in early position, especially in tournament play. These Poker hands are simply not that strong.
Yet another case of over playing and over valuing hands occurs when players hold suited Aces. Yes, they are powerful, but only on the pre flop. After the flop, the suited Aces are still a high pair, but what if somebody has a set? Aces can still be used to build a flush. But that will depend on the flop.
If you get nothing on the flop and are raised big, your Poker strategy should be to fold.
Another aspect of over valuing Poker hands causes players to chase. They are unable to release their hands, and so they end up paying money to see the turn and river. This often leads to heavy losses. It is also a fact that chasers often are unaware of draw odds. Knowing the odds will help you make the proper decisions on whether to draw or not.
Paint cards are also powerful, but again, players tend to over play them. If you are raised big, always take into consideration the kind of player who did it. If he is very tight, then raising, or re raising means he has at least an Ace.
Knowing the kind of Poker hands that you have is crucial, but also you should know to fold them when they are not as powerful as you initially thought they were. The problem with a lot of players is that simply cannot let go of their hands.
Avoid this tendencies, and you will be able to make better plays and win bigger pots.