Check Points
Checking in poker is sometimes seen as weak and passive like calling, but it is a legitimate part of the game and there sometimes are good reasons to check instead of betting.
Choosing the option to check is best when:
* You have marginal cards or a draw to a hand, and no bets in front of you. Basically, you get to see the next card for free, and you could get lucky.
* When in the big blind with raggy cards and no raise is made. Any two cards can win, so check your option so you can see the flop for no additional cost.
* You’ve got the absolute nuts - quads or the best full house possible. This is the time to slow play and check from early position. A bet here could shut down the hand with a small pot. You want to keep other online poker players engaged, so don’t scare them away.
* Choose to check as part of a check-raise strategy. You check your monster hand, and wait for another player to bet, then raise. A check-raise accomplishes two things: it can build a big pot; and it can win you the hand right away.
* Check when you suspect an online poker opponent might try to check-raise you. If you have seen a player check-raise before, then expect it again and be wary. Any time the board indicates your hand can be beat, don’t take the check-raise bait. Check back at your opponent.
