In the hands of a Poker pro, pocket pairs can turn into a formidable hand. However, if you are new to the game, it is important that you understand the basic facts about pocket pairs.
First, it is important to realize that terms like small and large pocket pairs are relative to the game being played, although in general 66 and below are held to be small. Small pocket pairs can be difficult to play. When you are on the blinds, then you should fold. That is the only option.
However, in games like No Limit, even hands like 66s can still be used well. They are very easy to hide, and when you get the set, it is quite easy to conceal. Raising with a 66 will not be noticed, as having a 6 on board will hardly be noticed by the other Poker players.
Your Poker strategy for playing pocket pairs should always be to check the flop. The strength of your hands will be weakened considerably if you see over cards or superior pairs. The best option would be to fold, as the odds of getting the big hand are diminished. Even if you get the set, having a superior pair on the board simply means that there is a chance of a higher set or even a two pair.
When playing pocket pairs, it is important that you always consider position, especially if it is tournament play. If you are the first to act, you should simply fold and wait for another hand. Even more so when you are playing to try and get in the money.
Also you should consider the table you are playing on. A lot of times, the looseness of tightness of the players around you will be instrumental in determining how you handle pocket pairs. If the Poker table is loose then you can play them quite often. If it is tight, then you should discard them.
Playing pocket pairs in Poker can be complex. Numerous situations can arise, and the complexity can be compounded by the type of game that you are playing. But as in every aspect of the game, it can be learned.
There are a lot of other online guides that you can use, and also playing the game itself often serves as the best learning tool. Armed with the facts, you will never be uncertain of how to play Poker pocket pairs.
