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Although there are many different ways to approach no-limit Texas holdem, most experts agree that a passive style is to be avoided. Aggression wins pots in no-limit Texas holdem games and passive players are in danger of being run over. What are the benefits and disadvantages of passive play?

Loose Passive Poker

Loose passive players are also called “calling stations.” These players can’t resist seeing a flop if they can do so cheaply, but don’t want to get too involved without a monster. You can string these players along if they catch any piece of the flop and drop the hammer on them on the river when they are “pot committed.” Occasionally, you may pay these players off since they might not raise you even if they have a big hand, but they will pay you off far more often.

Tight Passive Poker

Tight passive players are often called “rocks.” These players won’t put a nickel into the pot without a real hand, not even in free online poker games. If they enter a pot, you can be sure they hold a pair or two high cards. If they raise, you can fold with impunity. If you raise them, they will almost always fold. If they do not, you can be sure they have the best hand unless you have a monster. These players don’t usually lose much, but they don’t win much either.

Avoiding Passive Play

Remember that it is usually better to raise than flat call. Just calling gives your opponent control over the hand and makes it difficult to judge how you stand. Try to lean towards betting or raising rather than checking or calling in many situations.

Remember that betting gives you two ways to win the pot. You may end up with the best hand, or your opponent may fold. That’s a major insight when you try making it into WSOP* 2008!

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