What Are Your Top 10 Starting hands?

MY TOP 10 Starting Hands Pre-Flop: AA; KK; QQ; AK s; JJ ; AQ s ; KQ s; AJ s; KJ s; 1010

I thought we should be "reminded" of what the "top 10" starting hands are "before the flop". Note, I said "before the flop". Are these your Top 10?
If not, what are your favorite Top 10?



I know that I personally "tend" to drift from these to a much "wider set" of starting hands. Is this wise?

Is "position" (ie. the Button) "more of a key" to using a wider hands set?


What are your views? Share your insight. Provide reasons why.


Thanks, Wally

"Is "position" (ie. the Button) "more of a key" to using a wider hands set?"

If it is folded to me and I am on the Button, I usually make a standard raise with ATC (any two cards). If a player pushes back I can easily fold. X

If you knew my vpip (around 19%, sometimes down to 11% ) you'd consider me to be very tight - though I'm ready to play any hand - depending on the situation.

Top starting hands are only a crude jig for the beginner but to answer some of OPs questions:

1. If you're at the beginning of the learning process a tight hand selection will help you make easier decisions.

2.Some of the hands you select are not in the "tight" - spectrum like AJo -KJs imo.

3. AA,KK,QQ,JJ,1010,99,88,77,66,55,44,33,22,AKs,AKo,A Qs,AQo,AJs,AJo

Hope I didn't get it wrong.

4. Hand strenght is always situational - stack sizes, position, table image, blinds+antes, bubble, opponents in hand aso all do matter.

5. Playing the button (if it is folded to you) means that there are less players (with potentially worse hands) acting behind you.

-> you can open your range in late position (slightly) but don't go wako style immeadiately.

Example: KJo utg=fold, KJo on btn = raise.


for further reading read ccs strategy section: StrategyArticles