When it comes to learning the game of poker it is important to understand all the different aspects of the game. Checking, opening, raising and re-raising are some of the key moves you need to know. However, there are some instances where checking is a bad move that could cost you money. Knowing when to check in poker is vital and will help you avoid making costly mistakes at the table.
When you check in poker it means that you defer your action to the next player without revealing your hand. This is a non-action that allows you to call a bet if you wish to. You can only check if no one has raised on that street before you and it is important to remember that checking does not surrender your hand.
Another reason to check is if you are in position and have a draw hand like a straight or a flush that requires the next card to hit. This is a strategic way to see the next card for free and give yourself the best chance of hitting your draw.
You should also check if you are facing a bet and want to keep your opponent guessing as to whether or not you have a strong hand. This is a great way to use the element of surprise to your advantage and can get your opponents to call your bet even with weak hands.
Checking can be used as a semi-bluff as well. You can raise your opponent when they are checking and you know that they have a weaker hand than you do. This can be an effective way to force them into calling with their weakest hand or even an all-in shove from drawing and second-best made hands.
Check raising can be a good move for beginners as it is a simple way to get more chips into the pot and potentially scare off your opponent. You should only check-raise when you are confident that you have a stronger hand than your opponent and you are sure that they will fold. Otherwise, you are just signalling weakness and giving them a reason to call your bets with their weaker hands. If you do decide to check-raise make sure that the pot is small enough so that you are not putting too many of your own chips at risk.