Showdown value
A hand strong enough to win sometimes when checked down, but too weak to bet.
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- What it means
- Middling hands often win at showdown against bluffs and weaker pairs. If you bet, worse hands fold and better hands call, so the bet only loses.
- How it is calculated
- The rule of thumb checks when you beat less than half of the calling range but have 20% or more equity against the whole range.
- Worked example
- You hold second pair on the river. You beat 35% of the villain's range, but only 30% of the hands that would call a bet. Checking keeps your 35%.
- Why it matters
- Turning showdown value into a bluff is a common beginner error: it folds out the hands you beat.
Lessons that teach it: Value, bluff or check · lessons other than the free one need an invite