S06E02 - Top 5 Most Asked Questions About Poker - Low Stakes Poker

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Top 5 Most Asked Questions About Poker

1.Why does the solver recommend folding AQo to 3-bets?

A solver often recommends folding Ace-Queen offsuit (AQo) to a 3-bet due to several factors tied to game theory optimal (GTO) play, equity, and positional dynamics. But there are even more considerations when playing against your average low stakes player.

A. Equity Against 3-Bet Ranges

When running AQo in an equity calculator against typical low-stakes 3-bet ranges, it shows approximately 36% equity. This is not ideal when facing a 3-bet, as AQo is often dominated by stronger hands like AK, QQ+, and even suited Aces. If you are out of position, this problem becomes even worse, as it is difficult to realize the full equity of your hand. Playing out of position adds complexity, reduces profitability, and increases the likelihood of making costly mistakes .

B. Reverse Implied Odds

AQo has significant reverse implied odds, meaning it can lead to costly situations when dominated by hands like AK or AQ suited. This risk is amplified in multi-street play, as committing chips with a dominated hand often results in losing larger pots .

C. Positional Disadvantages

When out of position, AQo struggles to realize equity effectively. Even when facing a rare low-stakes opponent who includes some preflop “bluffs” in their 3-bet range, such as A5 suited, JT suited, and 65 suited, it remains difficult to realize your equity. Out of position, you will often be forced to navigate complex postflop decisions where opponents can leverage their positional advantage to deny your equity realization


2.What are some tells to identify weaker players or ‘fish’ at the table?

A.Playing Too Many Hands
Bad players often enter the pot with a wide range of weak hands, ignoring position and strength. They rarely fold preflop, making them easy targets for skilled players who tighten up and exploit their loose tendencies.

B.Mostly Limping and Being Passive
Frequent limping signals inexperience or fear of aggression. Passive players rarely raise, preferring to call or limp, which makes it hard for them to build pots or protect their equity. This playstyle is exploitable with aggression.

C.Not Buying in for a Full 100 Big Blinds
Short-stacked players who buy in for less than the table maximum often lack confidence or a proper bankroll strategy. This limits their ability to play effectively postflop and makes them more predictable.


3.How should I adjust my play when facing different bet sizes post-flop?

In live low-stakes no-limit hold’em cash games, players often telegraph the strength of their hands through their bet sizing. Here’s a concise breakdown of how you can exploit this tendency effectively:

A.Responding to Large Bets: Large bets typically indicate very strong hands. Against players who follow this pattern, you can confidently fold marginal hands, minimizing losses in situations where you are likely to be beaten.

B.Responding to Small Bets:

* With Strong Hands: When opponents bet small, indicating weakness, capitalize by simply calling or occasionally raising for value. This traps them into continuing with weaker holdings.
* With Weak Hands: You can use small bets as an opportunity to bluff with hands that have no showdown value. A well-timed raise can force them to fold weak holdings, allowing you to win the pot without a strong hand.

Recognizing and exploiting betting patterns helps you control the game flow. For instance, wh