Definition
Bet sizing rules govern how much you can bet or raise. These rules vary by game type, and knowing them prevents costly mistakes.
Game Types and Limits
| Game Type | Min Bet | Max Bet |
|---|---|---|
| No-Limit (NL) | 1 big blind | Your entire stack |
| Pot-Limit (PL) | 1 big blind | Current pot size |
| Fixed-Limit (FL) | Set amount | Set amount |
No-Limit Rules (Most Common)
Minimum Bet
The minimum bet is one big blind.
Example: In a $1/$2 game, minimum bet = $2
Minimum Raise
The minimum raise must be at least the size of the previous bet or raise.
| Scenario | Min Raise |
|---|---|
| No prior bet | 1 big blind |
| Someone bets $10 | Raise to at least $20 |
| Someone raises to $50 (from $20) | Re-raise by at least $30 (to $80) |
Maximum Bet
In No-Limit, you can bet any amount up to your entire stack at any time.
This is why it's called "No-Limit"!
Pot-Limit Rules
Maximum Bet Formula
Max Raise = Pot + (2 × amount to call)
Example
Pot is $100. Opponent bets $50.
Pot after call = $100 + $50 + $50 = $200
Max raise = $200
Total you put in = $50 (call) + $200 (raise) = $250
💡 Shortcut: In PLO, just say "pot" and the dealer calculates it for you.
Fixed-Limit Rules
Bets and raises are fixed amounts:
| Street | Bet/Raise Amount |
|---|---|
| Preflop & Flop | 1 small bet (e.g., $2 in $2/$4) |
| Turn & River | 1 big bet (e.g., $4 in $2/$4) |
Typically capped at 3-4 raises per round.
Special Situations
All-In Below Minimum
If you don't have enough to make a full raise, you can still go all-in.
Example: You have $15. Opponent bets $20. You can go all-in for $15.
Reopening the Betting
| Situation | Can Others Re-raise? |
|---|---|
| Full raise made | Yes |
| All-in under min raise | No (betting not reopened) |
Example: Pot is $50. Player A bets $50. Player B goes all-in for $70 (only $20 more). Player A cannot re-raise—the $20 isn't a full raise.
Common Mistakes
| Mistake | Why It's Wrong |
|---|---|
| Raising less than minimum | Illegal, must match or exceed previous raise |
| Calling then adding more | String bet (illegal in live poker) |
| Not knowing pot-limit math | Makes incorrect raises |
Key Takeaway
In No-Limit, you can bet any amount from 1 BB to your stack. Know the minimum raise rule: it must be at least the size of the previous bet or raise increase. This prevents tiny, annoying raises and maintains game integrity.