hi all, i just recently became interested in stud high and was wondering what you guys think the general starting requirements are in a typical online .5/1/.05 8 handed game

thanks.

Honestly, I would recommend buying a stud book because stud depends so much on what your opponents have. However, as a VERY basic starting point..here goes


1) Rolled up trips: any three of a kind is good. Slowplaying is okay sometimes, but don't be afraid to play them fast either. People will usually draw in this game, so get value when you can.

2) Premium Pairs: Tens or better (split or concealed) are good hands and should be played aggressively if you think you have the best hand (based on opponent's up cards and action) or to find out where you stand in the hand.

3) All concealed pairs have good value, even dueces. For example, if you start with (2 2) Ace, then you have a good hand if you can see Fourth St. fairly cheaply.

4) Suited Cards: alot of players will play any three suited cards. This is a bad idea and WILL cost you money in the long run. My requirements for playing three suited cards are......A) If 3 or more of your suit are out, fold. don't chase dead cards. I need either the Ace of that suit or two cards above a ten of that suit. (unless you have three suited cards that could also make a possible straight...meaning you have three cards to a st. flush. These are good also.) For example...If you have (3h 8h) Qh, fold. If you have ( 4h 5h) 6h, this is playable.

5) three connecting cards. Only play hands such as (5 6) 7 if your 8's and 4's are live (one can be out, no more). Even then, this hand is not really THAT strong..


Hands other than these should usually be folded. Of course, there are always exceptions, as stud is more about your opponents up-cards and betting patterns and such. Too many players will take a hand such as
(Ah Kc) 4s too far, because they have "Ace-King" and think it is a strong hand. Don't be one of these players. Stud is about staying patient and playing only good, solid hands, especially while you are just learning the game. Staying patient and disciplined will turn you a profit at lower limits, trust me.

If you don't want to invest in a book, please read ALL of the other forum topics in this stud section, as this has been brought up many, many times. 8)

Also, if you're heads up against a big pair, FOLD if you have a pair with an undercard kicker, but you can take a few cards if you have a pair with an overcard kicker. It doesn't matter how big your pair is if there's an apparent pair larger than yours.