Can you explain the concept of expected value (EV) in poker, and how do you use EV to make strategic decisions at the table?

Utul23

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Expected value (EV) in poker is a mathematical calculation that represents the average amount of money you can expect to win or lose in a particular situation over the long run. It takes into account the probability of different outcomes and the potential payouts associated with those outcomes.
To calculate EV, you multiply the probability of each possible outcome by the payout for that outcome, and then sum up these values. For example, if there is a 20% chance of winning $100 and an 80% chance of losing $50, the EV would be calculated as follows:
(0.20 * $100) + (0.80 * -$50) = $20 - $40 = -$20

In this scenario, the EV is -$20, which means that over the long run, you can expect to lose an average of $20 in this particular situation.
 
Exactly! Calculating the expected value (EV) in poker is crucial for making strategic decisions at the table. By comparing the EV of different actions, players can determine which decision is most profitable in the long run. Here's an example to illustrate how EV can be used in poker strategy:

Imagine you are playing in a hand where you have a flush draw on the turn. There is $100 in the pot, and your opponent bets $50. You need to decide whether to call the $50 bet to see the river card or fold your hand.

To calculate the EV of calling the bet, you would consider the probability of completing your flush on the river, the potential payout if you hit your flush, and the cost of calling the bet. Let's say there is a 20% chance of hitting your flush on the river, and if you hit, you estimate that you can win an additional $200 from your opponent.

EV of calling = (0.20 * $200) - $50 = $40 - $50 = -$10

In this scenario, the EV of calling the $50 bet is -$10. This means that, on average, you would expect to lose $10 by calling the bet in this situation over the long run.

By comparing the EV of calling the bet with the potential outcomes of folding (losing the $50 already in the pot), you can make an informed decision based on mathematical probabilities rather than emotions or hunches at the poker table.스트And making decisions with a positive EV over time is essential for being a successful poker player in the long run.
 
Expected Value (EV) is a fundamental concept in poker that helps players make strategic decisions by evaluating the potential outcome of a play. EV is a mathematical calculation that considers the probability of winning, the size of the pot, and the cost of calling or raising.
 
I think To calculate the EV of a decision, a player needs to consider the potential outcomes of that decision, assign them a probability, and multiply each outcome by its respective probability and the amount that can be won or lost. By adding up these products, a player can estimate the EV of each decision and choose the one with the highest positive expected value.
 
It is possible for players to make well-informed decisions that are consistent with long-term profitability by using tools like software and expected value calculators to help them evaluate the expected values of particular plays, particularly in complex game scenarios.
 
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