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Poker Dictionary – Hole Cards

If you’re just starting out in the world of poker, you will come across several words and terms as you learn the game. These words are specific to the game and you must be well acquainted with them before you dive deeper into the game. To help you get equipped with such terms, we, at Gutshot, will upskill your knowledge by providing poker related terms and jargons, in our poker dictionary segment. Here, we will not just explain you what the term means but will also explain how you can use them strategically in the game of poker.

Whether you’ve been playing poker for long or you are just getting to know the game, in all probability you have come across the term ‘hole cards.’ No matter which variant of poker you talk about, hole cards are common to every variant of poker. But what are hole cards? Let’s find out!

What are Hole Cards?

Hole cards refer to the cards in poker that a player must not reveal. These cards are dealt face-down and the player is not supposed to reveal it. Hole cards belong only to the player and no one is allowed to see the hole cards unless the player wishes to show them at the time of a showdown. 

For example, in a Texas Hold’em game, a player is dealt two hole cards, while in Omaha four hole cards are dealt. Hole cards are also commonly known as pocket cards, face-down cards or starting cards. 

ALSO READ: Gutshot Poker Dictionary – Backdoor

How to use the hole-cards?

Firstly, remember that hole cards are your private cards. Do not reveal or disclose them to anyone unless a showdown situation arises. Even when you decide to fold your cards, you are not expected to show your hole cards. Also, be careful when you look at your hole cards. Slightly cover your hole cards with one hand and partially turn them with the other hand in a way that your cards are only visible to you. 

One must try to memorize the cards with their suits at first glance. This will avoid you from having to check them again when something like a flush or straight draw hits the board, thus making it obvious for your opponents to gauge what hand you have.

In Texas Holde’m, you can use both, one or none of your hole cards to make your best hand. In Omaha, you must compulsorily use exactly two of your four hole cards when making a hand.

Since today you’ve learnt what hole cards are, you can play the game and dive deeper into the game. Happy playing!

For more such information, keep reading  Gutshot Magazine. If you’re on social media then follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Telegram.

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