Position
Position is where you sit at the poker table in relation to the dealer. It determines the order in which you act during a hand. The closer you are to the dealer button, the later you act, which is considered a better position. Acting later lets you see what others do before making your decision.
The origin of Position in Poker
The term “position” has been around since poker’s early days. It emerged because players noticed that acting later in a hand provided a strategic advantage. The concept was crucial in games like Five-Card Draw and Stud, long before Texas Hold’em became the most popular variant.
Examples of use:
“I won that hand because I was in late position and saw everyone fold.”
Player 1: “Why did you fold such a strong hand?”
Player 2: “I was in early position and didn’t want to risk it.”
You can use it in real life too…
- “I’m taking the last turn in this game night, better position for a comeback!”
- “I hate being first to present in class; wish I had a late position.”
- “In job interviews, it’s better to go last. Position matters!”
When playing, be aware:
Do: Use your position to your advantage
Acting last gives you more information. You can see how many players are in the pot and their actions. This allows you to make more informed decisions. Use it to control the pot size and apply pressure on your opponents.
Do not: Play aggressively from early position
Playing aggressively from early position can backfire. You have less information about your opponents’ hands. It’s better to play tighter and only enter pots with strong hands when you’re in early position to minimize risk.
Position means the same in other sports?
In basketball, “position” refers to the spot a player takes on the court, like point guard or center. It has a different meaning, as it describes a role rather than a strategic advantage.
In chess, “position” is similar to poker, referring to the arrangement and tactical advantage on the board. Like in poker, having a better position in chess often leads to a higher chance of winning.
Trivia
Did you know that in online poker, your position can even influence the types of hands you play? Studies show that players in later positions tend to play a wider range of hands, while players in early positions stick to stronger hands.
