Playing AJ may be one of the toughest hands to play in No-Limit Texas Hold'em. From early position, it is best to just fold this hand. Playing AJ out of position will get you in all sorts of trouble. If an ace hits the flop and your opponents call the flop, it is very difficult to continue. From middle and late position, you should raise ace jack about three to four times the big blind. If someone re-raises you, it is time to fold the hand. Many times an opponent will re-raise you with AK or AQ. Calling with AJ is a terrible play as you will lose your entire stack when an ace hits the flop. If an opponent has raised from early position, you should fold your hand. AJ is a difficult hand to play when an opponent shows strength. It is best to avoid these types of situations and just wait for the next hand. If no one re-raises you pre-flop, make a continuation bet on the flop about three quarters the size of the pot.

Continue to play the hand aggressively if you hit a pair of aces or jacks. If you miss the flop and your opponent sticks around, you should give up the pot. Ace jack looks like a great pre-flop hand but it is a very dangerous hand to play. Concentrate on your opponents? betting patterns and playing AJ will be easy. If you know what your opponents are holding, it doesn't matter what you have. Many times you will be able to push them off the best hand if they show weakness. Analyze as many hands as possible and you will be well on your way to winning a tournament.

Return to Poker-A-Z.Com's - Online Poker Index