Definition
Pot odds are the ratio between the current pot size and the cost of a call. They tell you how often you need to win to break even on a call.
Pot Odds = Call Amount : Total Pot After Your Call
The Basic Formula
Pot Odds = Call / (Pot + Call)
Or expressed as a ratio:
Call : (Pot + Opponent's Bet)
Simple Example
Pot: $100 Opponent bets: $50 You must call: $50
Pot Odds = 50 / (100 + 50 + 50) = 50/200 = 25%
You need to win 25% of the time to break even.
Common Bet Sizes and Pot Odds
| Bet Size (% of Pot) | Pot Odds Needed |
|---|---|
| 25% (1/4 pot) | 17% |
| 33% (1/3 pot) | 20% |
| 50% (1/2 pot) | 25% |
| 66% (2/3 pot) | 29% |
| 75% (3/4 pot) | 30% |
| 100% (pot) | 33% |
| 150% (1.5x pot) | 38% |
| 200% (2x pot) | 40% |
How to Use Pot Odds
Step 1: Calculate Your Pot Odds
What % do you need to win?
Step 2: Estimate Your Equity
How often will you win against opponent's range?
Step 3: Compare
- Equity > Pot Odds → Call (+EV)
- Equity < Pot Odds → Fold (-EV)
- Equity = Pot Odds → Break even
Poker Example
You have: 9♥ 8♥ Board: 7♦ 6♣ 2♠ A♥
You have an open-ended straight draw (8 outs).
Pot: $80 Opponent bets: $40
Pot odds: 40 / (80 + 40 + 40) = 25%
Your equity: 8 outs × 2 = ~16% (one card to come)
Decision: 16% < 25% = Fold (unless implied odds help)
Quick Reference: Outs to Equity
| Outs | Flop to Turn | Turn to River | Flop to River |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 9% | 9% | 17% |
| 8 | 17% | 17% | 32% |
| 9 | 19% | 19% | 35% |
| 12 | 25% | 25% | 45% |
| 15 | 31% | 31% | 54% |
The Rule of 2 and 4
Quick equity estimate:
- One card to come: Outs × 2 = Equity %
- Two cards to come: Outs × 4 = Equity %
Example
Flush draw = 9 outs
- Turn only: 9 × 2 = 18%
- Turn + River: 9 × 4 = 36%
Key Takeaway
Pot odds are the foundation of calling decisions. Calculate how often you need to win, estimate your equity, and call if you're getting the right price. If not, fold—or consider implied odds.