Pot Odds Tutorial
What are Pot Odds?
Pot odds tell you if a call is profitable based on the size of the pot and the amount you need to call.
They help you decide whether to continue in a hand based on your equity.
How to Calculate Pot Odds
- 1. Start with the current pot size (before any action).
- 2. Add your opponent’s bet.
- 3. Add your call to get the total pot if you call.
- 4. Divide your call by the total pot.
- 5. Multiply by 100 to get the percentage.
Formula:
Pot Odds = (Call / (Pot + Bets + Call)) × 100
Example
The pot is $100. Your opponent bets $50. You need to call $50.
Total pot if you call = $100 (initial pot) + $50 (opponent bet) + $50 (your call) = $200.
Pot Odds = (50 / 200) × 100 = 25%
You need at least 25% equity to make a profitable call.
Pot Odds Reference Table
| Pot Odds | Required Equity | Suggested Action |
|---|---|---|
| < 20% | ~20% | Only call with strong draws |
| 20% - 33% | ~25%-33% | Flush draws, combo draws |
| 34% - 50% | ~35%-50% | Top pair, open-ended straight draw |
| > 50% | 50%+ | Call or raise with strong made hands |
Test your understanding of pot odds with our interactive exercises.
Start Pot Odds ExercisesFrequently Asked Questions about Pot Odds
Pot odds consider only the
current pot and call amount. Implied odds include future bets you expect to win if you hit your
draw.
Yes. Pot odds are recalculated at each betting round
as the pot and bet sizes change.
Count your outs and estimate your equity (Rule of 2 and 4). If your equity is higher than your pot odds, calling is profitable.
Yes. Multiway pots increase the pot size, improving pot odds, but reduce your equity since more opponents can beat you.