Question of interpretation

I have been playing Hold'em for a few weeks and I have read: 'Before the flop seriously consider folding non-pair cards of less than 10'. Does that mean that both Hole cards are less than ten or simply that one of the Hole cards is less than ten? Hopefully it is the former as I would hate to fold an A9 without first having had a peep at the flop.

Thanks,
Emrys Davies.

Well it depends on the situation I guess. If I can get in cheap with an ace, 9 or I might take a flop with it, but if I'm calling big pre-flop raises with it someone should tattoo donkey on my forehead.

As with many answers in poker it should begin with 'it depends on the situation'.

Anywhere but the button and you shouldnt really be looking to play these hands too often. Im not saying never, but at an early stage in your poker life you should really be getting comfortable with just the premium hands.

In fact even A9 is the same, a button raise maybe, but in middle or early position it is a raggy hand to play as if anyone after you has a better ace and then one arrives on the flop - you will not know if you A is winning or not.

The more you play the more it becomes clear often as well it is more to do with the position and your opponents more than the actual cards.

Check out some of CC articles as well & GL at the tables
Poker Strategy - Poker Theory, Poker Articles, Strategies & Tips.

Well, to answer your question, this means fold any hand that has a card lower than a ten in it (yes, that means fold ace 9). But, if you ask me, this is horrible advice. This is what is known as playing way too tight. As soon as your opponents realize what youre doing(and it wont take long), they will basically know when you have a hand and when you dont. Thats bad.

Instead, try to become comfortable playing a wider range of hands when you can afford it and when your position at the table warrants it. For example, fold that ace 9 when your under the gun(first to act before the flop), but try raising with it when youre on the button and the action is folded to you or others are trying to limp in(just call the big blind). For that matter, try raising with ANY HAND from that position. The point is to put pressure on your opponents when youre in a good position to do so. Once you become comfortable playing a wider range of hands and get a feel for your opponents, youll be more successful.

One other thing to be aware of. You need to know when to fold those ace kings and pocket jacks. Just because it was good before the flop, doesnt mean its good after the flop. Be aware of what your opponent may have and and act/ react accordingly.

What an excellent piece of advice and I very much appreciate it. I now have a much clearer picture and it makes sense. I feel sure that it will improve my game and at the same time make it more interesting and enjoyable.

good question good post. Thx.

One thing to consider is table position... to use the example of A9, early position it's an easy toss, in late position you've seen everyone's play and can decide if it's worth playing or not. Villian (opponent) play style might dictate calling if he's always a heavy aggressor on most hands dealt regardless what he has. Another thing to consider is the type of game and how many players are left seated at the table coupled with position. Ton's of variables to consider and every hand is different.