Order of Action

Definition

Order of action determines who acts first, second, third, etc. in a betting round. This order differs between preflop and postflop, and understanding it is key to using position effectively.

Preflop Order

Action starts left of the big blind and moves clockwise.

9-Handed Preflop Order:

1. UTG      (Under the Gun)
2. UTG+1
3. MP       (Middle Position)
4. LJ       (Lojack)
5. HJ       (Hijack)
6. CO       (Cutoff)
7. BTN      (Button)
8. SB       (Small Blind)
9. BB       (Big Blind) ← Acts LAST preflop

BB has the "option" — even if no one raised, BB can still raise.

Postflop Order

Action starts with the first remaining player left of the button.

Postflop Order (if all remain):

1. SB       (Small Blind) ← First to act
2. BB       (Big Blind)
3. UTG
4. UTG+1
5. MP
6. LJ
7. HJ
8. CO
9. BTN      (Button) ← LAST to act

The Key Difference

Why Order Matters

🎯 Acting Last = Advantage

When you act last:

• See all opponent actions first
• Have maximum information
• Control pot size more easily
• Bluff more effectively

😰 Acting First = Disadvantage

When you act first:

• No information about opponent hands
• Must guess what they'll do
• Harder to bluff
• Easier to be exploited

Practical Examples

Example 1: Preflop

6-max table. You're on the button with K♠ Q♥.

UTG folds → HJ folds → CO calls $2 → BTN (you) ???

You've seen 3 actions. You know CO is weak (just called). You can raise confidently.

Example 2: Postflop

Flop: A♠ 7♣ 2♦

SB checks → BB checks → CO checks → BTN (you) ???

Everyone checked to you. They're all showing weakness. Great spot to bet!

Heads-Up Order (Special Case)

Heads-up preflop is reversed! The button/SB acts first preflop.

Order Summary Table

Key Takeaway

Position is the most underrated advantage in poker. Acting last lets you make informed decisions while opponents guess blindly. Always consider order of action when planning your strategy.