Preflop Hand Selection System

Your preflop decisions create the foundation for every hand you play. A systematic approach to hand selection eliminates guesswork and builds a profitable baseline.

Position-Based Opening Ranges

Position is the single most important factor in hand selection:

**UTG (9-max)**: Open ~8-10% — 77+, ATs+, A5s-A4s, KTs+, QJs, AQo+

**MP**: Open ~13-15% — Add 55-66, A9s-A6s, K9s, QTs, JTs, T9s, AJo, KQo

**CO**: Open ~22-25% — Add all pairs, A2s+, K6s+, Q8s+, J8s+, suited connectors 65s+

**BTN**: Open ~40-45% — Add most suited hands, offsuit connectors T9o+, any ace

**SB**: Open ~35-40% with 3x sizing; mix calls and raises

Hand Categories

**Premium Pairs (AA-JJ)**: Always open, always 4-bet, play for stacks preflop against most opponents

**Broadway Hands (AK, AQ, KQ)**: Strong high-card value, dominate worse broadways, good 3-bet candidates

**Suited Aces (A5s-A2s)**: Wheel draw potential + flush equity + blocker value — excellent 3-bet bluffs

**Suited Connectors (98s-65s)**: Play well multiway, can flop strong draws, best from late position

**Small Pairs (22-55)**: Set mine in position; fold to raises when stacks are not deep enough (need 15:1+ implied odds)

Adjusting for Table Dynamics

**Tight table**: Open wider, steal blinds more aggressively

**Loose table**: Tighten up, play hands that can make the nuts

**Aggressive 3-bettors behind**: Tighten opening range, 4-bet more with blockers

**Weak passive players in blinds**: Open wider, expect to win pots postflop

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