Browse > Home / Poker Articles / How To Play Pocket 7’s

How To Play Pocket 7’s

In all actuality, playing Pocket 7’s PreFlop isn’t always a bad decision. The value of Pocket 7’s PreFlop really depends on the situation at hand, such as how many opponents you’re up against, what type of players they are, and of course, what type of player you are.

How to Play Pocket 7’s PreFlop – Number of Opponents

The value of playing Pocket 7’s PreFlop progresses substantially as the number of participants decreases. For instance, playing Pocket 7’s at a full table of 9 or 10 players isn’t nearly as likely to win as playing Pocket 7’s in a heads-up situation. The fewer opponents on the felt, the better Pocket 7’s become before the Flop.

If playing heads-up, it is strongly recommended to play Pocket 7’s PreFlop. Even if the Flop doesn’t improve your hand, you may still have a decent shot at the pot, either by bluffing, reading your opponent well enough to guess the strength of his hand, or by simply bluffing him out of the hand if a scare card hits the board.

At a 6-handed table, it is very important to be able to read your opponents. Sitting in late position becomes crucial, giving you the opportunity to determine the confidence other players have in their own hands. If previous bettors are folding out, with only one or two calling the big blind or placing minimal wagers at best, stay in and see if the Flop can help you out. You also have the option to bluff, discouraging marginal hands from paying to move on.

At a full table, unfortunately, playing Pocket 7’s PreFlop is not generally recommended. The only time to play Pocket 7’s PreFlop at a full table is when you are in late position, and no other payer is showing confidence in their hand. Again, you may place a moderate raise to scare out the marginal hands, or simply call to see the Flop improves your hand.

How to Play Pocket 7’s PreFlop – Opponent Types

The type of opponent you are up against is very important when deciding whether to play Pocket 7’s PreFlop. If you’re up against a very tight play, and he has chosen to play to the Flop, be very cautious. Tight players only move on with great starting hands, such as Pocket Aces, A-K suited, or A-K off-suit. If he’s playing on a draw and the Flop doesn’t help, he will Fold, but if he’s got a high Pair, you’ll need a great Flop to beat him.

If you’re playing a Loose opponent, he will be going to the Flop with a wide range of hands, from marginal to impressive. You should definitely play Pocket 7’s PreFlop when it’s not too expensive to do so against this kind of player; then decide after the Flop whether it’s worth moving on or not.

If you haven’t managed to read your opponent yet, take the safe road, fold PreFlop and wait until you can get a better read on him.

How to Play Pocket 7’s PreFlop – Your Playing Style

If you’re a tight player yourself, you’ll probably feel inclined to Fold Pocket 7’s PreFlop. However, as we mentioned above, when in late position, use the advantage of reading your opponents before making a hasty decision. The bluffing and low-betting to see the Flop options are still available to you if the situation calls for it.

If you’re a Loose player, you’ll definitely want to see the Flop with Pocket 7’s. It’s the nature of Loose players to do so. If you’re an aggressive player, go ahead and place the moderate bet/raise to eliminate marginal hands. If you’re a passive bettor, and a low bet is available, make the Call. If the Flop doesn’t help, it’s time to get out.

Other Texas Hold’em Related Articles

Back to Poker Articles page.