Poker is a game of many different strategies and techniques, all of which can be used to win. However, some poker hands are better than others. Knowing these, as well as how your poker hands ranked amongst others can give you a significant advantage over your opponents.
Five Best Poker Hands in Order
1. Royal Flush
A royal flush is the highest hand in poker and comprises the Ace, King, Queen, Jack, and Ten of the same suit. This hand is scarce and difficult to achieve, but it is the most valuable hand. If you acquire this hand during a poker game, the best thing to do is to bet high and aggressively, as no other hand can defeat it. Because this hand is the rarest among all poker hands, acquiring it automatically gives you success.
2. Straight Flush
A straight flush is the second-highest hand in poker and is made up of any five consecutive cards of the same suit. This hand is also scarce and difficult to acquire, which allows it to remain a strong hand that can give you an advantage over your opponents. If you receive a straight flush during a poker game, you should bet high as there is a good chance of acquiring the pot. However, be aware that if another player has a higher straight flush, they will beat you.
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3. Four of a Kind
Four of a kind is the third-highest hand in poker and is made up of any four cards of the same rank. This hand is not as rare as the first two but is still considered to be a strong hand. When playing with four of a kind, you should bet high as there is a good chance that you will win the pot. However, if another player has a higher four-of-a-kind, straight flush, or a royal flush, they will beat you. It’s best to be aware of what other players have before betting too high.
4. Full House
A full house is the fourth-highest hand in poker and consists of three cards of the same rank and two cards of another rank. This hand is fairly common and can give you a good chance of acquiring the pot. When playing with a full house, you should bet medium to high, as the chances of success are still high. However, be aware of the possibility of another player having a higher full house, four-of-a-kind, straight flush, or royal flush, as these hands would still defeat yours.
5. Flush
A flush is the fifth-highest hand in poker and is made up of any five cards of the same suit. This hand is relatively common and can still give you a decent chance at acquiring the pot. When playing with a flush, you should bet medium to high as the chances of success are still decent. A flush occurs approximately once in every 500 hands, so it is not as rare as the previously mentioned hands, but it is still a good hand to have.
Other Things You Should Do
If you are dealt any of the above hands during a poker game, you should bet high as your chances of success significantly increase. However, be aware that other players may have stronger hands, so always be cautious when betting. The key to poker success is knowing when and how much to bet. Betting too high can cause you to lose everything, but betting too low can also result in lost opportunities. Always be strategic when betting, and use your best judgment to make the most out of every hand.
Regardless of what poker combinations you’re facing, here are 3 things you should always do:
1. Pay Attention to the Other Players
You should always be aware of what other players are doing and how they react to the current situation. Try to spot distinct tells that could give you an indication of what cards they are holding. Doing this will give you a better chance of success as you can make better-informed decisions.
2. Be Aggressive When Appropriate
In poker, aggression is vital. You should always be looking for opportunities to bet and raise the stakes. Doing so will pressure your opponents and force them to make mistakes. However, be careful not to overdo it, as this can backfire and cause you to lose everything.
3. Know When to Fold
Knowing when to fold is one of the most crucial components of poker. There will be times when you face a strong opponent with a better hand than yours. In these situations, the best thing to do is to fold and save yourself from losing any more money. Remember, poker is a game of patience, and sometimes the best thing to do is to wait for a better opportunity.
Conclusion
Poker is a complex game that requires skill, strategy, and wit. However, if you follow these tips, you will give yourself a better chance of success. Always pay attention to your opponents, be aggressive when appropriate, and know when to fold. Doing so will improve your chances of success and becoming a better poker player. Lastly, it is of utmost importance that you memorize the poker hands. If you’re new to the game, a poker hands chart is a great tool to help you. Start your poker journey today by playing online poker free at the world’s largest poker room, GGPoker! Sign up now!