What Does Cut the Pot Mean in Poker?
Cut the pot refers to the act of dividing the pot between two or more players in a poker game when a tie occurs, ensuring each player receives their fair share of the pot.
When You Might Hear Or Use The Term Cut the Pot
This term is commonly mentioned in conversation or gameplay when two players have identical hands at showdown in a poker game, resulting in a split pot.
In-Game Example
In a Texas Hold’em game, both players show down AK and the board runs out 25QJ10. Both players have an Ace-high straight, so the pot is cut evenly between them.
Strategy / Tips
Best Practice: Recognize situations where a split pot is likely to avoid overcommitting chips on a hand that may not win outright.
Common Mistake: Misreading the board and not realizing a tie is possible, which can lead to unnecessary betting.
Pro Tips: In cash games, be aware of pot odds in split situations to make informed decisions.
Differences playing over the table vs online: Online, the software automatically cuts the pot, whereas in live games, players or dealers must manually split the pot.
Alternative Names
Split the pot
FAQs
Q: What happens if there are odd chips when cutting the pot?
A: In most games, the odd chip is given to the player closest to the dealer’s left or determined by house rules.
