Preflop

Preflop is the first stage of a poker hand in Texas Hold’em and Omaha. It happens after players receive their hole cards, but before any community cards are dealt.

What happens preflop

1 – Each player is dealt private cards: 2 hole cards in Texas Hold’em or 4 hole cards in Omaha

2 – The first betting round begins.

3 – Players choose to:

• fold
• call
• raise (or re-raise)

Why preflop matters

Preflop decisions are crucial because they determine:

• which hands you play
• how much money goes into the pot early
• your long-term profitability

Strong preflop play is about choosing the right hands depending on:

• your position at the table (early, middle, late)
• stack sizes
• opponent style

In short: Preflop is the first betting round, where players decide whether their starting hand is worth playing.