Playing Overcards Questions (Miller)

[Luhroy]

Playing Overcards Questions (Miller)

In SSHE, Ed Miller provides a list of questions to ask yourself about whether or not to bet or check the flop when you have just overcards. However, aside from the examples he provides, he doesn’t provide what I would consider (as an intermediate player) straightforward answers. I know he is encouraging his readers to think through these things themselves (and I have quite a bit), but there are still some things I’m confused about. So, here are the questions and my responses. Please criticize/coment freely. Much obliged.

1. How big’s the pot?

The bigger it is, the more you should bet. But what if it’s on the cusp?

2. How likely are my overcards still to be best? That is, how likely is it that all my opponents missed the flop?

If it’s more likely than not I should bet. Otherwise, check. But what if enough information has not been provided?

3. How strong is my hand?

The stronger, the more you bet. Stronger means, backdoor flush and straights draws, and/or the baord’s ragged to moderately coordinated. What if my hand’s borderline, or I’m not sure?

4. How likely is betting to win the pot immediately?

The more likely, the more you should bet. Is a check-raises ever correct? If so, when?

5. Is betting likely to improve my winning chances significantly even if I do not win immediately?

If more likely than not, bet. How, exactly, would this improve your winning chances? What if you’re not sure?

6. Is betting likely to buy a free card on the turn if I want it?

If yes, bet. What if my hand is weak? What if it’s marginal? What if I’m not sure?