Option
What Does Option Mean in Poker?
In poker, the ‘option’ refers to the choice given to a player to raise or check when they are in a particular position, usually the big blind, and no one has raised before them in the betting round.
When You Might Hear Or Use The Term Option
You’ll often hear this term when discussing preflop action, especially in cash games or tournaments when the action folds around to the big blind.
In-Game Example
Imagine its a $1/$2 cash game and everyone folds to the big blind. The dealer looks to the big blind and says, “You’ve got the option.” The player can then choose to check and see a flop for free or raise to apply pressure on the small blind.
Strategy / Tips
- Best Practice: Use the option to control the pot size. Opt to raise with strong hands or check with marginal hands to see a cheap flop.
- Common Mistake: Overusing the option to raise with weak hands, leading to difficult postflop situations.
- Pro Tips: When playing online poker, be aware that opponents may have tracking software that influences their decision making, so vary your play.
Alternative Names
The option is sometimes simply referred to as “checking your option.”
FAQs
Q: Can the option be used in a tournament setting?
A: Yes, the option is available in both cash games and tournaments whenever the action folds to the big blind.
