Schooling
What Does Schooling Mean in Poker?
In online poker, ‘Schooling’ refers to a phenomenon in limit games where players collectively chase a draw, often leading to more players staying in the hand than would be optimal. This can increase the pot size and odds for drawing hands, as weaker players get ‘schooled’ into calling due to the larger pot odds.
When You Might Hear Or Use The Term Schooling
You’ll often hear ‘Schooling’ mentioned in conversations about limit games, particularly when discussing hands where multiple players stay in the pot chasing draws, influenced by the favorable pot odds.
In-Game Example
Imagine you’re playing a limit hold’em game. The flop gives a possible flush draw, and despite having only a marginal hand, several players continue to call bets on the turn and river, driven by the enticing pot odds created by the number of players already involved.
Strategy / Tips
- Best Practice: Recognize when schooling is happening and adjust your strategy by tightening your range or increasing aggression to capitalize on opponents overvaluing their draws.
- Common Mistake: Falling into the trap of schooling yourself by chasing draws with insufficient odds.
- Pro Tips: Use schooling to your advantage by betting for value when holding a strong hand, as opponents are likely to overcall.
- Differences playing over the table vs online: Schooling is more prevalent in live games where players may be influenced by the physical presence and betting patterns of others, whereas online players might rely more on statistical odds.
Alternative Names
“Herding” is another term that might be used interchangeably with schooling in certain poker circles.
FAQs
- Q: Can schooling occur in no-limit games?
A: While schooling is more common in limit games due to fixed bet sizes, it can occasionally occur in no-limit games when players are influenced by the pot odds or the actions of others, though it is less frequent.
