Definition
Key terms used in GTO solvers and equilibrium-based poker analysis.
Core Solver Concepts
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| GTO | Game Theory Optimal - unexploitable strategy |
| Nash Equilibrium | State where no player can improve by changing strategy |
| EV | Expected Value - average outcome over many iterations |
| Exploit | Deviating from GTO to profit from opponent mistakes |
| Frequency | How often an action is taken (as %) |
Game Tree Terms
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Node | A decision point in the game tree |
| Root | The starting point of analysis |
| Branch | A possible action at a node |
| Leaf | End point where hand values are realized |
| Subgame | Portion of game tree from any node |
Strategy Concepts
| Term | Definition | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Pure Strategy | 100% one action | Always bet AK |
| Mixed Strategy | Multiple actions at frequencies | Bet 70%, check 30% |
| Indifference | EV equal between actions | Fold or call both 0 EV |
| Exploitability | How much strategy loses to perfect counter-play | 2bb/100 exploitable |
Range Analysis Terms
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Range vs Range | Analyzing all hands vs all hands |
| Combos | Number of specific hand combinations |
| Equity Distribution | How equity is spread across a range |
| Nut Advantage | Having more of the strongest hands |
| Range Advantage | Having higher average equity |
Solver Output Terms
| Term | What It Shows |
|---|---|
| EV (bb) | Expected value in big blinds |
| Frequency % | How often each action is used |
| Equity % | Share of pot at showdown |
| Strategy | Recommended action distribution |
Common Solver Actions
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| X | Check |
| B | Bet (often with size, e.g., B33 = 33% pot) |
| R | Raise |
| C | Call |
| F | Fold |
Simplification Terms
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Abstraction | Simplifying game tree for computation |
| Bet Sizing Node | Limited bet sizes used in solution |
| Action Reduction | Removing unlikely actions |
| Convergence | Solution approaching equilibrium |
💡 Key Takeaway: Understanding solver terminology helps you interpret GTO solutions and apply them to real games.