What Does One Gap Mean in Poker?
A one gap is a type of starting hand in poker where two of the cards are separated by one rank, such as 9 and 7. These hands have some potential for forming straights but are generally less valuable than connected hands.
When You Might Hear Or Use The Term One Gap:
This term is commonly mentioned in conversation or gameplay when discussing hand ranges and potential straight draws.
In-Game Example:
You’re dealt 97 in the small blind. The flop comes 862, giving you an open-ended straight draw thanks to your one-gap hand.
Strategy / Tips:
- Best Practice: Use one gap hands to play speculative pots in position where you can control the pot size and apply pressure if you hit or a scare card appears.
- Common Mistake: Overvaluing one gap hands out of position, leading to difficult post-flop situations.
- Pro Tips: One gap hands can be more valuable in aggressive games where opponents can fold to pressure, or in multi-way pots where implied odds are greater.
- Differences Playing Over the Table vs Online: Online play might favor tighter starting hand requirements, reducing the profitability of speculative one-gap hands compared to live play where dynamics and reads hold more sway.
Alternative Names:
None commonly used.
FAQs:
Q: Are one gap hands worth playing in early position?
A: Generally, it’s advisable to be more selective with one gap hands in early position due to the risk of facing raises and being out of position post-flop.
Related Terms:
- Connected Hands
- Open-Ended Straight Draw
