Pot odds

Basic Definition

Pot odds refer to the ratio of the amount you stand to win if you are successful to the amount you need to pay. By calculating this ratio, you can make decisions about your next action (whether to call or not) based on expected value. This is sometimes simply referred to as "odds."

Specific Situation

If there is $100 in the pot and your opponent bets $50, you need $50 to call. In this case, you are paying $50 to compete for a pot of $100 + $50 + $50 = $200, so the pot odds are 4 to 1.

If there is $100 in the pot and your opponent bets $100, you need $100 to call. In this case, you pay $100 to compete for a pot of $100 + $100 + $100 = $300, making the pot odds 3 to 1.

Important Information

Pot odds are a fundamental metric used to determine whether to call, by comparing the probability of a successful draw calculated based on outs (implied odds or equity).

It's important to not only calculate pot odds but also consider your opponent's bet size and the potential risk and return when making decisions.

Examples of Term Usage

"I had a flush draw on the flop, but the pot odds weren't right, so I folded."