Linear, Condensed, and Polarized Ranges in Poker
Short Answer
A linear range is continuous from strong hands to medium-strong hands. A condensed range is concentrated around medium showdown value. A polarized range contains strong value hands and weak bluff candidates. Range shape should be identified before choosing size and frequency.
The Three Shapes
Linear ranges appear often in preflop 3-bets or strong opening positions. They contain many high-equity combinations and apply pressure as a whole. Condensed ranges often belong to callers: the strongest hands were raised, the weakest were folded, and many medium hands remain. Polarized ranges usually appear with large bets or river raises, where value hands and bluffs are separated.
Why It Changes Strategy
Linear ranges often prefer small or medium bets at high frequency because the range has stable equity. Condensed ranges need protected checks and cannot overuse big bets with marginal hands. Polarized ranges prefer large sizes because value wants maximum payoff and bluffs need enough fold equity.
Decision Steps
- Identify who has more nut hands.
- Identify where medium showdown value is concentrated.
- Check whether the opponent has enough weak hands to fold.
- Choose between frequent small betting and larger polarized betting.
Common Mistakes
The main mistake is using one bet size on every board. An ace-high dry board and a low connected wet board affect ranges differently. Read the range shape first, then choose frequency.