Equity in poker is the percentage chance your hand has to win the pot by showdown, based on the current cards dealt and possible outcomes.
Equity in Poker is a critical concept that refers to the percentage chance a player has of winning the pot, based on their current hand and the remaining cards to be dealt. It’s essentially your share of the pot if all remaining cards were dealt, and no further betting took place. Having a strong understanding of equity allows players to make better decisions about whether to bet, call, or fold during a hand.
Calculating Poker Equity
Equity is calculated by determining the probability that your hand will be the best one at showdown. For example, if you hold A A and your opponent has K K , your equity pre-flop is around 82%. This means that out of 100 simulations, your Aces would win 82 times. Calculating equity during a hand often involves approximations, but poker calculators and tools like PokerStove can help players simulate hand outcomes.
Using Equity to Guide Decision Making
Equity isn’t just about knowing your chance of winning a hand—it influences key poker strategies, including:
- Bluff-catching: When you suspect your opponent might be bluffing, understanding your equity can help decide whether to call. For example, if your equity is greater than the pot odds required for a profitable call, you should proceed.
- Value betting: Equity helps decide when you can bet for value. If your equity against your opponent’s likely calling range is high enough, betting for value becomes the optimal move.
Equity in Action: Hand vs. Range
Players often face situations where they are unsure of their opponent’s exact hand, so they calculate equity against a range of hands. For example, on a J 10 4 flop, if you hold Q Q , you might calculate your equity against an opponent’s potential range of hands like K K , A K , and other combinations.
Last Words
Mastering equity calculations provides a significant edge in poker. Whether it’s making the right call with a draw, evaluating a bluff, or betting for value, understanding how equity works—and applying it in-game—improves decision-making and long-term results.
