In poker, being 'Pot Committed' refers to a situation where a player has already invested so much money into the pot that they feel compelled to continue with the hand, even if their cards are not particularly strong.

What Does "Pot Committed" Mean in Poker?

In poker, the term 'Pot Committed' is used to describe a situation where a player has already put so many of their chips into the pot that they feel obligated to continue betting, even if their hand is not strong. This is often because the size of the pot is large compared to the amount of chips they have left.

For example, if a player has $100 in chips and has already bet $70 into a pot of $200, they might consider themselves 'Pot Committed', because they've already invested a significant portion of their stack and stand to win a large pot if they do end up with the best hand.

Understanding when you or an opponent is Pot Committed is vital in any poker game. Folding when you are effectively Pot Committed is usually a huge mistake and will lead to you losing most of your chips. If you know you opponent is Pot Committed or will be on latter streets, that should influence your decision in the hand. In this instance, you should only call with strong hands or when you have the potential to make a strong hand.

Example of "Pot Committed"

For instance, a player might feel 'Pot Committed' if they have a marginal hand but have already invested a large portion of their chips in the pot.

In another scenario, a player might be considered 'Pot Committed' if the remaining amount of their chips is small compared to the size of the pot.

• "I felt Pot Committed after betting half of my chips, so I decided to call the raise."
• "He was Pot Committed with only a few chips left, so he decided to go all-in."
• "She didn't have a strong hand, but felt Pot Committed after investing so much in the pot."

Is being Pot Committed always a good reason to continue betting?

Not necessarily. While being Pot Committed can influence your decision to continue betting, it's also important to consider the strength of your hand, the actions of the other players, and your position at the table.

What should I do if I'm Pot Committed but have a weak hand?

If you're Pot Committed but have a weak hand, your best course of action will depend on a variety of factors, including the actions of the other players and your read on their hands. In some cases, it might be best to fold, while in others, you might decide to call or even raise.

How can I avoid getting Pot Committed with a weak hand?

To avoid getting Pot Committed with a weak hand, it's important to manage your bankroll carefully and make strategic decisions about when to bet, call, raise, or fold. Don't feel compelled to continue betting just because you've already invested a lot of money in the pot.