medium · Poker Theory Preflop

Game: No-Limit Hold'em | Format: Cash Game | Blinds/Antes: 1/2, no ante | Effective Stacks: 100 bb | Hero Position: SB | Pot Size: 1.5 bb | Scenario: You are in the Small Blind. The Under the Gun (UTG) player opens to 3 bb. You look at A ♦ Q ♦. Why is this hand typically a 'call' rather than a '3-bet' in standard equilibrium against a tight UTG open?

1. 3-betting converts a strong dominating hand into a marginal one that must fold or play awkwardly against a 4-bet range of AA, KK, QQ, AK.
2. You are out of position, so you should always call to keep the pot small.
3. Calling allows you to see the flop and use the 'Rule of 4' more effectively.
4. A Q s is not strong enough to 3-bet; only A A and K K should 3-bet from the Small Blind. (under this line) (under this line) (under this line)

Sign up free to see the explanation and track your rank →