Hand Reading Fundamentals

Hand reading isn't magic—it's systematic elimination based on actions.

Range, Not Hand

You're not putting opponent on ace-king specifically. You're defining a range of hands consistent with their actions. Each action narrows the range.

Preflop Tells You a Lot

Raise from early position? Strong range. Limp then call? Weak-medium. 3-bet? Premium or sometimes suited connectors. Open from button? Could be anything.

Narrowing Post-Flop

Each bet, check, or raise eliminates hands. Bet on dry board? Often overpairs or air. Check on wet board? Often medium strength or draws. Raise on turn? Usually very strong or bluff.

Practice Method

After every hand, write down what range you put opponent on. Then see the showdown. Over time, you calibrate your reads against reality.