There are a lot of different betting strategies that can be used in online poker, one of which, when playing Texas Hold-em, is the ‘all-in’ bet. In free versions of the game, mug punters go ‘all-in’ just for the fun of it – it’s not their money, so why not? When you’re playing with real money, however, you need a strategy that ensures a reasonable return.

As the name suggests, ‘all-in’ is where you bet all of your remaining chips in a single bet. The best ‘all-in’ strategies are the ones that are played with patience. Going ‘all-in’ first up after a card turn generally signals a good hand. It also often signals that the last turned card ‘made’ your hand – in other words, the last turned card is one you can use. Your opponents can see from the cards on the table what sort of hand you are likely to have.

A better strategy is one where you play with patience. You may not win as much in a single hand, but then, you may not lose as much either. By betting the table minimum, you are keeping the game alive. If other players think they have a chance, they will either match your bet or even raise.

This suits your strategy. Every circuit of betting means your opponents are committing more of their cash to the pot. The best time to play your ‘all-in’ bet is after three or four rounds. Players are now faced with either matching your bet, or throwing their hand in. The problem for them is they have already committed a fair proportion of their betting funds. Some will throw their hand in, perhaps all. That means you take the whole pot without showing your hand.

Others will meet your bet and, if your hand is good enough you will win a good-sized pot and perhaps eliminate them from the game. By jumping in early with an ‘all-in’ bet, you could scare the opposition away. Let them commit some of their money to the pot first then scare them away with an ‘all-in’ bet. Online poker – it’s all about strategy.