![\"Image](\"https:\/\/www.top10pokersites.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/fundamental-poker-theory-guide.jpg\" "\\"Fundamental")
The fundamental theorem of poker is a groundbreaking concept first introduced by the professional poker player and three-time WSOP bracelet winner What\u2019s great about this theorem is that it\u2019s universal \u2014 it applies to every variation and format of poker<\/i>. It captures the essence of poker and its nature as a strategy game about making decisions without having all the information.<\/p>\n
Every winning poker player follows this seemingly simple yet profound axiom to the letter.<\/p>\n
This post will explain fundamental poker theory and help you improve your poker skills.<\/p>\n
What Is the Fundamental Theory in Poker?<\/h3>![\"What](\"https:\/\/www.top10pokersites.net\/images\/icons\/icon-strategy.png\")
The fundamental poker theory asserts that you must make decisions at a poker table as if you could see your opponent\u2019s cards<\/strong>. It emphasizes the importance of getting a read on your opponent and understanding their ranges.<\/p>\n I will quote the first part of the theory directly from the book and then provide an interpretation:<\/strong><\/p>\n \u201cEvery time you play a hand differently from the way you would have played it if you could see all your opponents\u2019 cards, they gain; and every time you play your hand the same way you would have played it if you could see all their cards, they lose.\u201d<\/i><\/p>\n Based on the belief that you can see your opponents\u2019 cards, this part implies that you should always make mathematically sound decisions<\/b>:<\/p>\n While you can\u2019t see your opponent\u2019s hands, you can make an educated guess by reading body language and narrowing down their ranges.<\/p>\n The second part of the theorem mirrors the first part but from a different perspective:<\/strong><\/p>\n \u201cEvery time opponents play their hands differently from the way they would have if they could see all your cards, you gain; and every time they play their hands the same way they would have played if they could see all your cards, you lose.\u201d<\/i><\/p>\n This part highlights the importance of bluffing and preventing opponents from getting a read on you. It suggests mixing things up, using different patterns at the table, and using versatile ranges across the board. Let\u2019s pretend we\u2019re playing a $1\/$2 No Limit game with $200 stacks.<\/p>\n Let\u2019s say player B bets $20 into a pot of $20. According to fundamental poker theory, player A should<\/i> call in this scenario. Even though player A has the better hand and knows at this point that their opponent is bluffing, they should avoid raising because it would scare player B away.<\/p>\n Rather than raising, player A should wait until his opponent puts more money into the pot. In this situation, calling has a higher expected value<\/a><\/b>, which is what fundamental theory is all about \u2014 focusing on making players with the largest EV.<\/p>\n The fundamental theory is the cornerstone of every successful poker strategy. Even though it\u2019s described in everyday language, it\u2019s based on math.<\/p>\n Applying this concept requires in-depth knowledge and skills because of the numerous variables in every poker game.<\/p>\n\n
\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/i> Example of the Fundamental Theory<\/span><\/h2>\n
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<\/p>\n<\/i> Is Fundamental Theory Effective?<\/span><\/h2>\n
<\/i> Best Poker Rooms To Play Online Tournaments<\/span><\/h2>\nMy list of the best poker sites which I consider to be the best rooms to play in 2024:<\/strong>
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