Stud poker should be played in a similar manner to other games in terms of basic strategy. And, in many ways, 5 card stud strategy is very similar to that of the more widely played 7-card stud poker. To make up the first pot, each player posts an ante before any cards are dealt, i.e. a fraction of a small bet. As in all other Stud variants you need to keep note of the other players' cards - this includes those hands that have folded as well as those still involved.

 

Beginners' Guide to 5-Card Stud Online Poker

Understanding your opponents' tendencies is vital to mastering of 5 card stud poker. Some players will raise with a lone ace or two cards 10 or better. Others will raise in second street with any pair. If you combine this information with the betting on later streets you will be in a better position to know when to call and when to fold. Implementing the basic 5 card stud strategy of reading opponents' hands is almost the same as 7-card strategy commonly in use today and is a necessity.

 

It's a good idea to get out of hands with multiple players if you have a smaller pair, as you're likely beat and will be chasing two outs to take the lead. This may not necessarily work as a 7-card stud strategy, but it certainly holds for 5-card games, because even if you hit two pair, it may not be good enough against multiple players. Anything smaller than a small pair should be folded in most playing situations.

 

Smart starting card play

A 5 card strategy for online poker, is to be very careful with your opening hands: nothing is more important than selecting the right starting hand for a certain situation. You should also play only on tables where you have an edge over the other players. Ensure you rapidly appraise your opponents: who plays second-rate hands, who folds when you show aggression, who bets with draws, who calls bets with weak hands and long-shot draws, who can be bluffed, who bluffs, etc.

 

A good rule for 5-card stud is if both your hole cards are higher than any of your rivals' up-cards, you have a strong chance of winning the hand. Most players don't pay enough attention to the hands held by their opponents, focusing instead on their own, or just the players left in the pot.

 

Five-card stud poker used to be extremely popular, and 7-card stud, hold'em, and online poker have only recently surpassed it. The game is different from most modern stud variants in that the number of visible cards makes it easier for players to judge the strength of their hands. Players, whether or not they have a background in the other games, should make sure to adapt their 5 card stud strategy accordingly.