Say in a heads-up action, there were two players and the blinds were at 400 & 800. Player 1 was the small blind and then player 2 was the big blind. Eventually, player 1 called the big blind and then expressed verbally he’d raise. Player 2 then went all in and so player 1 folded. By the way, player 1 was not given the chance to say how much he’d raise.

So now, what do you think happens next right after player 1 folded? At some point, I thought that player 1 should raise but I don’t know how much. What do you think?

In advance, thank you.

David White
David,

Player 1 must raise. Since he did not declare an amount or push any chips out, he is only forced to put a raise in of the minimum, which is the size of the big blind.

First, I would like to let you know that I love your site so much. It has been a great help to me and to my family. And keep up the good work!

Well, I am here now as I know you’re the person who could help me out find the answer to my questions.

1. Most of the games that I was able to witness, there’s one thing I notice. Most of the players that come into play bring their girl/boy friend, at times even their best friend, brother, cousin, etc. Typically, they sit next to each other and assist or help each other in critical moments. Honestly, I believe there’s nothing so big about bringing someone but there are cases that this already bothers other players at the table. So do you think it would be a poor etiquette, rude, or unlikely to separate “pairs” at the table?
2. It’s quite impossible actually, but for several times already my games end with two players, me and another player. This another player never changes, it’s always him and I don’t know why. Well, I noticed that if he is chip lead by a huge margin then he calls it off, and gives up my buy in. At times if it is reversed he tears me a new one. I believe he’s a tight player. But wait, sometimes he’s also the loose type or the passive one, in fact even aggressive, depends on the situation. Now, I’m wondering, can I crack him down? If so, how?
3. I must admit it I guess, I can’t afford to play in a casino or card room. But despite of this, I want to learn more and eventually be a much better poker player. Is there any possible way for me?

Please, I badly need your help.

Thanks!

Truly,
Perkins
Perkins,

1. There is nothing wrong with someone sitting at the table if all they are doing is observing. If they are assisting the player they are with, that is cheating. There is a one player to a hand rule that should be enforced.
   
2. When you are heads up, you should loosen up your requirements. See more flops and see them cheaply. When you flop solid, then punish him. Play a form of small ball poker. When you get big hands, push your advantages. Chances are you are playing too tight heads up.
   
3. Play online poker. This will help you to learn how to play better as it is live competition, just on the computer. You can also buy you some books or DVD’s to help educate you more regarding poker.

I clearly understand that when you are playing head to head the button is the little blind and the other player is the big blind. Am I right? But I’m wondering now as to who should play first and why. Any idea?

Thanks in advance and great site!

Best,
McCullough
McCullough,

The button is indeed the small blind and is also the first to act. Heads-up preflop is the only time that the button is the first to act. On the flop and afterwards, the button becomes last to act again.