Poker Plays 101: Position Plays

Position plays is a general term for poker plays that are suitable for each position. In Texas Hold'em poker especially, position carries with it certain strategic consequences. By completely understanding position plays, one will be sure to play poker brilliantly.

If you come to ask experts on what the most important aspect of poker strategy is, they will most probably answer 'position.' Position simply refers to where a player is seated at the table. There are three positions, each carrying with them certain consequences regarding strategy: early position, middle position, and late position.

Here we take a close look at each position play.

1. Early position plays

The early position is often thought of as a disadvantageous position. This is because the blinds are forced to make a bet. Another reason why this position is considered as a weak one is because there is not enough information given to players at this point.

Early position plays are based on playing tightly and aggressively with the most excellent hands. These range from protection plays, slow-playing, check-raises, and isolation plays. Bluffing is not suitable in the early position, as there are still many players remaining in hand. However, defensive plays against blind stealers could be considered as a form of a bluff.

2. Middle position plays

The middle position is a so-so position. One could safely play mid-range hands unlike in the early position, but not low-ranking ones because there are still some players left to act. Poker plays that are efficient in this position include all the aggressive good-hand plays. One could also do draw plays and semi-bluff at this point, since you could already paint a small picture of the board's situation.

3. Late position plays

The late position is considered to be the best position. Because almost all players have finished acting (all players if you are on the button), one has enough information about one's opponents.

The best late position plays are deceptive plays. This is because if you have a strong hand in the late position, you would not need to play aggressively, since other players have probably folded already. If you have a weak hand, then playing aggressively will make the remaining players fold. Thus, bluffing, slow playing, as well as steal plays are good late position plays.

Position plays are best played depending on the situation. If you are in the middle position and think that you could pull off a bluff, do so. By understanding position and position plays, you are a step away to becoming a great or even excellent poker player.