Tip #13 - Don't overvalue small pairs

Small pairs (22 through 66) are often overplayed by beginning and intermediate players. While these hands do have value, they need to be played carefully and in the right situations. Understanding when and how to play small pairs can make a significant difference in your long-term results.

Here are the key facts about small pairs:

• You will flop a set (three of a kind) only about 12% of the time
• Without hitting a set, your small pair will often be behind by the river
• Even when you flop a set, you won't always get paid off
• The implied odds need to be very good to justify calling raises with small pairs

Small pairs play best in these situations:

• When you can see the flop cheaply (either by limping or calling a small raise)
• When the stacks are deep (at least 10-15 times the size of the raise)
• When your opponents are likely to pay you off when you hit your set
• When you're in late position and can better control the size of the pot

Conversely, small pairs are particularly problematic in these situations:

• Facing a raise from early position (where opponents typically have big pairs)
• When the stacks are shallow (less than 10 times the raise)
• Against tight players who won't pay you off when you hit
• In tournaments when the blinds are high relative to your stack

Remember that small pairs derive most of their value from hitting a set on the flop. If you don't hit your set, you should usually be prepared to fold to significant action. Don't fall into the trap of calling multiple bets with a small pair just because "it might be good." Against competent opponents, an unimproved small pair rarely wins at showdown in a raised pot.