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What Are Hole Cards?

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Hole / Hole Cards

What Does Hole / Hole Cards Mean in Poker?

In poker, these are the face-down cards dealt to each player that only they can see. They are used in combination with community cards to form the best possible hand.

When You Might Hear Or Use The Term Hole / Hole Cards

During the initial dealing phase of a poker game, you might hear players discussing their hole cards as they assess their hand strength and potential strategies.

In-Game Example

In a game of Texas Hold’em, each player receives two hole cards. If you hold AK, your strategy will revolve around these cards in combination with the community cards.

Strategy / Tips

  • Best Practice: Evaluate your hole cards in relation to your position at the table and the actions of other players.
  • Common Mistake: Overvaluing weak hole cards like low off-suit connectors.
  • Pro Tips: In heads-up play, hole cards become extremely significant due to the limited number of players.
  • Differences playing over the table vs online: Online players often have tools that track opponents’ tendencies, impacting how they play their hole cards compared to live play.

Alternative Names

Pocket cards

FAQs

Q: How many hole cards are dealt in Texas Hold’em?
A: Each player receives two hole cards.

Q: Can hole cards be revealed during the game?
A: Hole cards are kept secret and revealed only at the showdown if necessary.

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