What Does Side Pot Mean in Poker?
In poker, a side pot is created when one or more players are all-in, and the remaining active players continue to bet. The main pot contains the bets of all players, while the side pot holds the additional bets placed by the remaining active players. Only those who have contributed to the side pot can win it, whereas the all-in player can only win the main pot. For more information on online poker, check out the latest strategies and tips available.
When You Might Hear Or Use The Term Side Pot
Side pots commonly come up in conversations during games where multiple players are involved in a hand, and at least one player has gone all-in. It is especially relevant in tournaments and cash games with aggressive betting.
In-Game Example
Imagine three players in a hand. Player A goes all-in with $50, Player B and Player C have $100 each. After Player A’s all-in, both Player B and Player C each bet another $50. The main pot consists of Player A’s $50 and $50 each from Players B and C, totaling $150. The side pot contains the extra $50 each from Players B and C, totaling $100. Player A can only win the main pot, while Players B and C are competing for both pots.
Strategy / Tips
- Best Practice: Recognize when a side pot is in play to adjust your strategy accordingly. Focus on maximizing your chance to win both pots if possible.
- Common Mistake: Ignoring the side pot, resulting in poor strategic decisions, especially when facing multiple opponents.
- Pro Tips: Use side pots to apply pressure, knowing some opponents may play differently when chasing just the main pot versus both pots.
- Differences Playing Over the Table vs Online: Online platforms automatically calculate side pots, while live games require manual tracking, affecting game pace and player focus.
Alternative Names
There are no widely recognized alternative names for a side pot.
FAQs
- Q: Can an all-in player win a side pot?
A: No, an all-in player can only win the main pot. - Q: What happens if there are multiple side pots?
A: Each side pot is managed separately, with only the contributing players eligible to win their respective pots.
