What Are Preflop Ranges?

A preflop range is the collection of hands you play from a specific position and situation. Instead of thinking about individual hands, skilled players think about ranges of hands they would play in each spot.

Why Ranges Matter

Thinking in ranges rather than hands is what separates recreational players from winning players:

**Consistency**: Ranges ensure you make balanced decisions

**Balance**: Prevents opponents from exploiting predictable patterns

**Efficiency**: Makes in-game decisions faster and more accurate

Understanding Range Notation

Poker ranges are typically displayed on a 13x13 grid representing all 169 starting hand combinations:

**Pocket Pairs**: AA, KK, QQ, etc. (along the diagonal)

**Suited Hands**: Above the diagonal (e.g., AKs, AQs)

**Offsuit Hands**: Below the diagonal (e.g., AKo, AQo)

Position-Based Ranges

Your opening range should vary dramatically by position:

UTG (Under the Gun)

The tightest position. Open only premium hands: ~15% of hands.

Hijack

Slightly looser than UTG: ~18% of hands.

Cutoff

Opens wider due to position advantage: ~25% of hands.

Button

The loosest opening position: ~40-50% of hands.

Small Blind

Complex spot - either raise or fold most hands: ~35% raise.

Big Blind

Defend wide against steals, but selectively against early position: varies by situation.

How to Practice Ranges

1. **Visual Memorization**: Study range charts daily

2. **Active Recall**: Quiz yourself on which hands to play

3. **Trainer Apps**: Use Poker Wizard for interactive practice

4. **Hand Review**: Check your actual play against optimal ranges

Common Mistakes

**Playing Too Loose UTG**: Early position requires discipline

**Defending BB Too Wide**: Balance defense frequency with hand strength

**Ignoring Position**: Same hand plays differently from different positions

Start practicing your ranges with Poker Wizard's interactive trainer today!

Preflop Ranges Explained: The Foundation of Winning Poker