Texas Holdem Poker Tips: Playing A-X Suited

When we say ace-X suited we’re talking about any suited card with an ace. However, big hands like A-K, A-Q and A-J have been discussed before so it will be more helpful for beginners to discuss hands between A-2 to A-10 suited.

 

Most novice players greatly overplay these hands either because they overvalue the ace or they overvalue the fact that it’s suited. Since it’s suited many beginners will chase the flush even with the pot odds against them, which in the long run is hurting their bankroll.

 

When you’re holding a hand such as A-6 suited or A-8 suited, the flush is your best bet to win the hand—which is not a good situation to be in. Your chances of flopping a flush are actually only 12 percent, and even if you make four cards to a flush with the river to come, your chances of hitting the flush are still only roughly 18 percent. Some of you may be saying, “Well, I can still pair the ace, though.” Pairing the ace may actually hurt you more than going after the flush draw, because if you do pair the ace you’re going to have to bet big to avoid giving away free cards. And if you get out-kicked by another player with an ace and a better kicker (which isn’t hard when you’ve got something like A-4 or A-6), you’ll be out a bundle. Whenever you do pair your ace your best play is usually to make a small continuation bet to gauge what your opponents have. If they come out raising, your best bet is likely to fold and avoid losing even more chips.

 

Don’t fall into the numerous traps you can set for yourself by overplaying A-X suited. Don’t overvalue aces and don’t overvalue suited cards, because no matter how lucky you are it will only cost you more and more chips in the long run.