Value is a term that is most often used as a poker strategy describing a betting tactic known as betting for value. Unlike trying to buy a pot by betting a large amount a value bet or raise tries to entice other players to call; thus raising the total size of the pot.

Value betting is much different than other betting strategies like bluffing, slow playing, or a protection bet. A value bet can used either on a drawing hand or a made hand. The basic idea is to raise the pot size when there is a positive expectation that you will win the hand.

Though you will in most cases value bet for value when you have a made hand there are times you may bet or raise with only a draw. A strong drawing hand that will hit more the 50% time is a good hand to bet for value on. When you find yourself in this situation determine your expected value by:

*Finding your drawing odds

*Finding your pot odds

*Asking yourself is there is positive expectation you will win the hand?

*If there is, ask yourself if a bet or raise will add expected value to the pot?

If you have gone through this process and you have found expected value your should bet or raise even if you are only holding a draw.

Lastly, value betting can be even more useful if you are able to read other players and put them on the correct hands. This will allow you to know how much you should bet to get them to call and raise the size of the pot. Knowing when to add value to the pot is important for any poker player because good hands only come along so often and you want to make the most of them.

About the Author: Michael is the Webmaster of Bingo Promotion

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