How to Count Cards in Poker?

May 15, 2023
8 Minute Read

This article will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to count cards in poker, giving you the tools to enhance your gameplay and potentially gain an edge over your opponents.

Poker is a popular card game that requires skill, strategy, and a bit of luck. While many players rely on their instincts and knowledge of the game, some take their strategy to another level by employing card counting techniques. 

Card counting is a method used to track the ratio of high-value cards to low-value cards that remain in the deck. 

Understanding Card Counting

Card counting is a strategy most commonly associated with blackjack, but it can also be applied to certain variations of poker. 

The concept behind card counting is based on the principle that when there is a higher ratio of high-value cards (10s, face cards, and Aces) to low-value cards (2s to 6s) remaining in the deck, the player has a higher probability of being dealt strong hands. 

Conversely, when there are more low-value cards in the deck, the player’s advantage decreases. Card counting allows players to keep track of the cards that have been played, enabling them to make more informed decisions based on the remaining deck composition.

Is Card Counting Legal in Poker?

Before delving deeper into the mechanics of card counting, it’s crucial to address the legality of this technique in poker. Unlike in blackjack, where casinos often prohibit card counting and may ban players who employ such strategies, card counting in poker is generally considered legal.

However, it’s important to note that not all poker variations lend themselves well to card counting. In games where the deck is shuffled after each hand like Texas Hold’em, card counting becomes ineffective. 

On the other hand, in games where multiple decks are used and the cards are not reshuffled frequently, such as Omaha or Seven-Card Stud, card counting can be a valuable skill to possess.

How to Count Cards in Poker

Now that we have established the groundwork, let’s delve into the steps involved in counting cards in poker.

Step 1: Assigning Values to Cards

The first step in card counting is assigning values to each card. The most commonly used system is the High-Low system, which assigns the following values:

High-value cards (10s, face cards, and Aces): -1

Low-value cards (2s to 6s): +1

Neutral cards (7s to 9s): 0

By assigning these values, you can keep a running count of the cards that have been played and estimate the composition of the remaining deck.

Step 2: Keeping a Running Count

To keep track of the cards played, you need to maintain a running count. Start with zero at the beginning of the game, and as each card is dealt, apply the corresponding value to it. Add or subtract the value of each card from the running count. 

For example, if the first cards dealt are a 10, a 5, and a 2, your running count would be -1, +1, +1.

Step 3: Calculating the True Count

While the running count provides an estimate of the deck composition, it’s important to adjust it based on the number of decks remaining in play. This adjustment is done by calculating the true count. 

To determine the true count, divide the running count by the number of decks remaining to be dealt. The true count gives a more accurate picture of the deck’s composition and allows for better decision-making.

Step 4: Applying the Card Count

Once you have the true count, you can use it to guide your decisions during the game. Here are a few ways to apply the card count effectively:

Bet Sizing

One of the main advantages of card counting is the ability to adjust your bet sizes based on the deck’s composition. When the true count is high, indicating a deck rich in high-value cards, you have a higher probability of getting strong hands. 

In such cases, it’s advantageous to increase your bets to maximize potential winnings. Conversely, when the true count is low, indicating a deck with more low-value cards, it’s wise to decrease your bets to minimize losses.

Hand Selection

Knowing the composition of the deck can also help you make better decisions regarding the hands you choose to play. 

When the deck is favorable with high-value cards, you can be more aggressive and play a wider range of hands, as the likelihood of receiving strong starting hands is higher. 

Conversely, when the deck is unfavorable with mostly low-value cards, it’s advisable to be more selective and focus on playing premium hands to maximize your chances of winning.

Strategic Moves

Card counting can also influence the strategic moves you make during the game. For example, if the true count is high and you have a marginal hand, such as a pair of 9s, you may consider splitting the pair or doubling down, as the probability of receiving high-value cards increases.

Conversely, if the true count is low and you have a weak hand, it’s wise to be more cautious and consider folding or playing defensively.

Can You Count Cards in Poker?

While card counting can be a valuable strategy in certain poker variations, it’s essential to acknowledge its limitations. 

Unlike in blackjack, where the deck penetration (the percentage of cards dealt before the deck is reshuffled) can significantly impact the effectiveness of card counting, poker games typically involve shuffling the deck after each hand. 

This practice makes it challenging to gain a significant edge through card counting alone. However, in games where multiple decks are used, such as in casino settings or certain online poker platforms, card counting can still provide some advantage, albeit to a lesser extent.

Tips for How To Count Cards in Poker

To optimize your card counting strategy in poker, consider the following tips:

Practice and Familiarize Yourself

Card counting requires practice to develop accuracy and speed. Spend time honing your counting skills and familiarize yourself with different card counting systems to find the one that works best for you.

Stay Disciplined

Card counting can be mentally demanding, requiring focus and concentration. Avoid distractions and maintain discipline throughout the game.

Be Subtle 

Unlike in blackjack, where card counting can be more discreet, poker games are often played in social settings. It’s crucial to be subtle and avoid arousing suspicion among fellow players or casino staff.

Understand Variations

Different poker variations have different rules regarding card counting. Familiarize yourself with the specific rules of the game you’re playing to determine if card counting is a viable strategy.

Combine with Other Strategies

Card counting should be used as part of a broader poker strategy. Incorporate other fundamental skills, such as reading opponents, understanding odds, and effective bankroll management, to enhance your overall gameplay.

How To Count Cards in Poker: Our Final Say

While card counting is not as prevalent in poker as it is in blackjack, understanding the principles and techniques behind this strategy can still provide valuable insights and potentially give you an edge in certain poker variations. 

Remember to adapt your card counting strategy based on the game’s specific rules and limitations. By combining card counting with other fundamental poker skills, you can elevate your gameplay and increase your chances of success at the tables. 

Happy counting!

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FAQs

Can card counting guarantee success in poker?

No, card counting alone cannot guarantee success in poker. While card counting can provide valuable insights into the deck composition and help make more informed decisions, it is just one aspect of a comprehensive poker strategy. 

Success in poker relies on a combination of skills, including reading opponents, understanding odds, and adapting to different game dynamics.

Are there any legal concerns when it comes to card counting in poker?

Generally, card counting in poker is considered legal. However, it’s important to note that specific casino policies and local regulations may vary. 

It’s always recommended to familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations of the casino or poker room you are playing in to ensure you are within the boundaries of the law.

Is card counting effective in online poker games?

Card counting is typically less effective in online poker games compared to live games. Most online poker platforms employ sophisticated shuffling algorithms and frequently reshuffle the deck, making it challenging to gain a significant edge through card counting alone. 

However, some online poker variations and platforms may use multiple decks or have specific rules that allow for card counting to have a minor impact on gameplay.

Tom Middleton

Tom is a crypto gambling expert with more than a decade of experience in the industry and Master’s Degree in Journalism. He has written thoroughly researched guides and reviews for several major publications.

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