How to play the button in poker
The button (the dealer seat) is the best position at the table: after the flop you act last on every street, so you see what everyone else does before you decide. That’s why winning players earn most of their profit from the button. Play more hands here than from any other seat.
Why the button is so strong
Section titled “Why the button is so strong”- You act last after the flop: more information, more control. See poker positions.
- Only the two blinds are left to act preflop when it folds to you.
- You can take free cards or bet when others show weakness.
Which hands to open
Section titled “Which hands to open”When it folds to you, you can open a wide range: most pairs, most aces, most suited hands, connected cards and broadway cards. For example K-9 offsuit, Q-8 suited and 7-6 suited are usually fine button opens at 6-max. Tighten up if the blinds defend or 3-bet a lot. See stealing the blinds.
When others have entered
Section titled “When others have entered”- Against a raise: 3-bet strong hands and some bluffs; call with hands that play well in position (pairs, suited connectors, suited broadways). See 3-bet.
- Against limpers: raise bigger to isolate. See limping.
Facing a 3-bet from the blinds
Section titled “Facing a 3-bet from the blinds”Blinds 3-bet the button more often because they know you open wide. Continue with good hands and fold the weakest part of your range. Don’t fold everything, or they’ll 3-bet you every time.
After the flop
Section titled “After the flop”- C-bet often against one opponent on dry boards. See continuation bet.
- When checked to, bet with value hands and good draws; check behind with medium hands to control the pot.
- Use position to bluff when opponents show weakness. See when to bluff.
Why is the button the best position in poker?
Section titled “Why is the button the best position in poker?”You act last after the flop on every street, so you have the most information.
How many hands should you open on the button?
Section titled “How many hands should you open on the button?”Many more than from other seats; a wide range when it folds to you.
Should you call or 3-bet raises on the button?
Section titled “Should you call or 3-bet raises on the button?”3-bet strong hands and some bluffs, and call hands that play well in position.
What should you do when the blinds 3-bet your button opens?
Section titled “What should you do when the blinds 3-bet your button opens?”Continue with good hands and fold the weakest; don’t fold everything.