The expression check in the dark indicates checking your hand on the current betting round without first looking at the upcoming cards.
For instance, just before the flop cards are dealt, a player in the first position might declare ‘check in the dark’. This means they will check regardless of what the flop reveals.
This strategy is often employed to create uncertainty or to unsettle an opponent. Logically, it may seem counterintuitive since athletes tend to make the best decisions based on comprehensive information.
In this tutorial, we will explore several key aspects -
Should We Ever ‘Check in the Dark’?
Generally speaking, checking in the dark is likely to be less advantageous than making informed decisions based on available information. While it might confuse an opponent, it's challenging to measure that advantage's effectiveness. The majority of seasoned players refrain from this tactic (though it may be used for show during televised events).
Is ‘Checking in the Dark’ Permitted in Poker?
The act of checking in the dark (acting before seeing the dealt cards) is completely legitimate, as long as we are the first to act on that betting round . However, if we are not the first, we could face consequences for acting out of order. Nonetheless, this tactic is rarely utilized since it's seldom considered beneficial to one’s win rate. In practice, any poker maneuvers conducted ‘in the dark’ may lead to reduced win rates. However, in casual home games or as a playful attempt to confuse others, checking in the dark is generally allowed in most poker settings.
What Does it Signify When Villain Checks in the Dark?
When an opponent checks in the dark, it means we cannot further refine their possible card range based on their action. This indicates that they are checking 100% of their hands. We may also infer that they intend to outsmart us unless they consistently utilize this method against all players. Additionally, it’s likely that the opponent has a heightened sense of self-worth and perhaps watches too much poker on television.
What Does ‘In the Dark’ Mean in Poker?
Acting ‘in the dark’ implies taking action without considering all the information at hand. For example, a poker player might say ‘bet $20 in the dark’ while the flop cards are still being revealed. Regardless of how the flop turns out, the player commits to a $20 bet due to their verbal agreement being binding. In most situations, making decisions ‘in the dark’ won't maximize our earnings, but it can be an effective method to unsettle or confuse competitors.
Summary
Checking in the dark indicates executing moves before seeing the cards for the ongoing betting round. It is not typically advisable to employ this strategy unless enjoying a leisurely game at low stakes.
When our opponent chooses to ‘check in the dark,’ we understand that their choice is not informed by the newly dealt cards and they are applying this action consistently across their entire range.