Explanation of Read
The word ' read ' is utilized in various contexts within poker, but its major applications include -
a) The process of 'hand reading ', which aims to define the potential hand range of our adversary.
b) The action of 'picking up reads ', which entails obtaining useful insights into an opponent's style of play.
The expression ' reads ' is frequently used synonymously with the term ' tells ”.
Illustration of a Read in context -> We developed a strong read indicating that our opponent is prone to executing triple barrel bluffs on boards with Ace-high.
Incorporating Read into Your Poker Tactics
The phrase “hand reading ” predominantly refers to the attempt to categorize our opponent's potential hands into a 'range', encompassing all the various combinations they may possess. Since it’s often impossible to determine the exact cards our opponent has, adept players focus their strategies around understanding this range instead of guessing their precise hand.
Usually, this involves beginning with a broad spectrum of potential hands and subsequently narrowing it down as more information becomes available. By the time we reach the final community card, we should have a clearer idea that our opponent most likely holds one of a few specific types of hands. By making the most informed decision based on the entirety of their possible range, we can enhance our long-term results. Contrary to the portrayal in popular media, where hand reading is depicted as a mystical talent allowing a player to magically discern another's cards simply by looking into their eyes, seasoned professionals recognize that effective hand reading is based on logical deduction rather than fortune-telling. For additional information, refer to the glossary entry on range .
In less frequent instances, 'hand reading ' involves determining the exact strengths of our own cards, taking into account all potential draws and redraws, not just the tangible strength. While this may seem straightforward in games like Hold'em, it becomes significantly more intricate in Omaha variants, particularly in Omaha high-low split. Truly grasping the precise nature of our hand, including backdoor possibilities, poses a steeper challenge. For instance, even players with considerable experience in Pot-Limit Omaha might struggle to recognize the number of nut and non-nut outs available from a specific flopped wrap. Moreover, even those familiar with wraps may not be aware of the types of backdoor wraps accessible in that situation.
' Reads ' or 'tells' have traditionally held considerable importance in poker, and they still significantly influence decision-making in live games. For an in-depth examination of the various types of reads we can glean from our opponents, kindly check the glossary entry for tells .
See Also
Range , Tells , Backdoor , Hold’em , Omaha , Wrap , Flop , Nuts