Position

Overview

Position is one of the most fundamental concepts in poker strategy. It describes where a player sits at the table in relation to the dealer button, which determines when they act during a hand. Acting later in a betting round provides a significant advantage because you have more information about opponents' actions before making your decision.

Position Categories

Early Position (EP)

Players to the immediate left of the big blind act first preflop. This is the least advantageous position because you must act without knowing what anyone else will do. Typical early positions include the small blind, big blind, and under the gun (UTG).

Middle Position (MP)

Seats between early and late position. Players here have slightly more information than EP but still act before most opponents. Middle position is often divided into MP1, MP2, etc.

Late Position (LP)

Players closest to the button act last. This is the most advantageous position. The cutoff (one seat right of the button), the button itself, and sometimes the hijack are considered late positions. The button acts last preflop and second-last postflop (the small blind acts last postflop when the button folds).

Blinds

The small blind and big blind have forced bets and act last preflop (big blind last to act) but first on subsequent streets. The blinds are considered poor positions postflop due to acting first.

Strategic Importance

• Information Advantage: Late position allows you to see how many opponents are in the hand and how they played before you act.
• Stealing Blinds: Players in late position can raise with a wider range to steal the blinds from early position players who usually have strong hands.
• Pot Control: Being in position lets you check behind for a free card or value bet more effectively.
• Bluffing: It is easier to bluff when you act last because you can gauge the table's strength.

Positional Awareness

Skilled players adjust their starting hand ranges based on position. For example:

• Early position: Play only strong hands (e.g., JJ+, AK).
• Late position: Play a wider range (e.g., any pair, suited connectors, Ax suited).
• Blind defense: In the big blind, you can call raises with wider ranges because you have already invested a forced bet.

Position in Different Formats

In heads-up play (2 players), the dealer button acts first preflop and last postflop. In multi-table tournaments, position changes each hand as the button moves. Understanding position is crucial for applying concepts like 3-betting ranges, continuation betting, and ICM considerations.

Conclusion

Position is a cornerstone of poker strategy. Players who master positional advantages can significantly improve their win rate by making more informed decisions. Always be aware of your position relative to the button and adjust your play accordingly.