Range

The term "range" in poker refers to the set of all the hands a player could be holding in a specific situation.

What is a Range in Poker?

In poker, a "range" is the term for the set of all hands a player could potentially have in a given spot. Estimating your opponent's range is the fundamental goal of reading and is crucial concept for strategic decision-making in poker, as it involves estimating the range of hands an opponent might have and adjusting your play accordingly.

Understanding Ranges

The concept of ranges is fundamental to poker strategy. It involves not just considering an opponent's current hand, but all possible hands they could have based on their actions. Players often use their understanding of ranges to make educated guesses about an opponent's hand and to inform their betting strategy.

Using Range in Poker Strategy

Understanding and using ranges effectively can provide a significant edge in poker. By estimating the range of hands an opponent could have, players can make more informed decisions about when to fold, call, or raise.

Example of "Range"

If a tight player reraises you preflop from early position you might expect them to hold a big pocket pair, ace-king, or ace-queen suited. This selection of hands together would constitute that player's range in this spot.

• "He put his opponent on a range of just top pair or an overpair, influencing his decision to fold."
• "She narrowed down her opponent's range based on their aggressive betting and decided to call."
• "Understanding the importance of range, he adjusted his strategy when his opponent reraised him."

How to Learn More About Ranges in Poker

We've established that ranges in poker are a vital part of the game to understand, but where can you learn more about them, and improve your understanding of both your own and your opponents' ranges?

There are two good options for you. Both are completely free and will help to significantly improve your poker skills.

PokerNews Preflop Range Charts

Our preflop range charts are a great resource if you want to better learn what your opening move is before any community cards have landed. We all know the best starting hands in poker, but dynamics can change based on your table position, prior hand action and stack size (with ICM implications adding even greater significance in tournament play).

These charts tell you the optimal play based on GTO strategy for whatever two-card hand you hold preflop, at a range of different stack sizes (measured in big blinds). Studying these will help you learn what positions you should be opening from, based on different hand ranges. Click the link below to read more.

GTO Wizard

The second option is for those more serious about poker. GTO Wizard is the most comprehensive poker training site you'll find online, with several cutting-edge tools that will help to take your game to the next level.

One of the standout features that GTO Wizard offers is the range builder tool. This allows you to create (or recreate if you're studying a specific spot) any given scenario at a poker table. Select the number of players, stack sizes, position and a range of other filters. GTO Wizard then does the work for you, showing you exactly how to play each hand, allowing you to build ranges and learn the optimal strategy in a wide variety of situations.

Range in Poker FAQs

What is a range in poker?

A range in poker refers to the set of all possible hands a player could have in a specific situation.

How does range affect poker strategy?

Understanding and using ranges effectively can provide a significant edge in poker. By estimating the range of hands an opponent could have, players can make more informed decisions about when to fold, call, or raise.

How can I estimate a player's range?

Estimating a player's range involves observing their actions and betting patterns, and using this information to make an educated guess about the potential hands they could have.

Can a player's range change during a game?

Yes, a player's range can change throughout a game based on their actions, the community cards, and their stack size.