Hand Range
What Does Hand Range Mean in Poker?
Hand Range refers to the spectrum of possible hands a player might have in poker, based on their actions and the game situation. It’s a critical part of hand reading and decision-making, allowing players to estimate an opponent’s potential holdings.
When You Might Hear Or Use The Term Hand Range:
During conversations about strategy, especially when analyzing an opponent’s potential holdings based on their betting patterns. It’s commonly used when discussing preflop decisions and postflop play.
In-Game Example:
You’re playing Texas Hold’em, and an opponent raises from early position. Based on their tight playstyle, you might assign them a hand range of strong pairs and high cards, like AK, QQ, or better.
Strategy / Tips:
- Best Practice: Adjust your perception of an opponent’s range based on their position and previous actions. Continuously refine this range as more information becomes available.
- Common Mistake: Assuming an opponent’s range is too narrow, leading to overconfidence in your own hand.
- Pro Tips: Use software tools to practice assigning ranges and simulate hands to improve your hand reading skills.
- Differences playing over the table vs online: In live games, physical tells can help narrow down ranges; online, rely more on betting patterns and timing tells.
Alternative Names:
Possible Hands, Hand Spectrum.
FAQs:
- Q: How can I improve my ability to assign hand ranges?
A: Study common opening ranges and practice hand reading in post-game analysis. - Q: Is it possible to know an opponent’s exact hand from their range?
A: No, but estimating their range helps make more informed decisions.
