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Pot Odds
casinoIn poker, the ratio of the current pot size to the cost of a contemplated call, used to determine if a call is mathematically correct.
Key Takeaways
- 1Pot odds compare pot size to cost of calling
- 2Call when your equity exceeds your pot odds
- 3Essential for making mathematically correct poker decisions
- 4Implied odds factor in future expected winnings
What are Pot Odds?
Pot odds compare the current size of the pot to the cost of a call. They help you determine whether calling a bet is mathematically profitable in the long run.
How to Calculate
Pot Odds = Cost to Call / (Pot + Cost to Call)
Example
- Pot: $100
- Opponent bets: $50
- Cost to call: $50
- Pot odds: $50 / ($100 + $50 + $50) = 25%
You need to win at least 25% of the time for calling to be profitable.
Using Pot Odds
- Calculate your pot odds (the price you're getting)
- Estimate your equity (probability of winning)
- If equity > pot odds → call is profitable
- If equity < pot odds → fold
Common Drawing Situations
| Draw | Outs | Equity (Turn) | Equity (Turn+River) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flush draw | 9 | 19.1% | 35.0% |
| Open-ended straight | 8 | 17.0% | 31.5% |
| Gutshot straight | 4 | 8.5% | 16.5% |
| Two overcards | 6 | 12.8% | 24.1% |
Implied Odds
Pot odds only consider the current pot. Implied odds factor in additional money you expect to win on future streets if you hit your draw.