Definition
An opening range is the set of hands you raise with when no one has entered the pot before you (Raise First In, or RFI). Your opening range changes based on your position at the table.
RFI = Raise First In (everyone folds to you)
Why Position Matters
| Position | Players Left | Range Width |
|---|---|---|
| UTG | 8-9 | Tight |
| MP | 5-6 | Somewhat tight |
| CO | 3 | Wider |
| BTN | 2 | Widest |
| SB | 1 | Wide vs BB |
More players behind = more chance someone has a strong hand.
Sample Opening Ranges (6-Max)
UTG (~15% of hands)
| Hand Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Pairs | 77+ |
| Broadway | ATo+, AJs+, KQo, KJs+ |
| Suited connectors | None or very few |
Cutoff (~25% of hands)
| Hand Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Pairs | 22+ |
| Aces | A2s+, A9o+ |
| Broadway | All suited, most offsuit |
| Suited connectors | 65s+ |
Button (~40-50% of hands)
| Hand Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Pairs | 22+ |
| Aces | A2s+, A2o+ |
| Kings | K2s+, K5o+ |
| Queens | Q5s+, Q8o+ |
| Suited connectors | 54s+ |
| Suited gappers | Many |
Reading Range Charts
Range charts show hands in a 13x13 grid:
- Diagonal: Pocket pairs (AA, KK, QQ...)
- Above diagonal: Suited hands (AKs, AQs...)
- Below diagonal: Offsuit hands (AKo, AQo...)
Why Tighter from Early Position?
- More players can wake up with hands
- Positional disadvantage postflop
- Harder to realize equity OOP
- Risk of 3-bet squeeze
Common Mistakes
| Mistake | Problem |
|---|---|
| Opening too wide UTG | Get 3-bet and dominated |
| Opening too tight on BTN | Missing profitable spots |
| Same range all positions | Ignoring position value |
Key Takeaway
Your opening range should widen as you get closer to the button. Position is power—more position means you can profitably play more hands.