Proper play of position is an imperative concept to grasp in Fixed Limit Texas Holdem. We want to save our “speculating” for later position and while in the unraised blinds, while playing only stronger hands from early position.

Generally speaking, we start with the highest of standards the earlier we act. As we drift into later position, we may relax our standards slightly – while turning up the aggression in our preflop activity. Position gives us the advantage of obtaining information before having to make a decision. For example, we would not put our money in with a hand such as seven – eight suited if we knew that the players sitting in middle position are going to two-bet, three-bet and cap, would we? By sitting in later position, we see the raise, reraise and cap, so we can safely throw away our speculative hands in situations such as these.

Hands to raise or limp from early position

We can safely raise with hands from the superior hand grouping. These are hands such as Aces, Kings, Queens, Ace King (suited or unsuited), as well as Ace Queen Suited. These hands are of high enough quality that they can withstand the reraise, and frankly – these hands love to be reraised! Additionally, we can call or raise with middle pocket pairs, as well as the upper end of our top pair hands, such as Ace – Jack suited, as well as King-Queen. All other hands should be folded from early position before the flop.

Hands to raise or limp from middle position

From middle position, it is acceptable to call or raise with the same standards as early position hands, however, we may also add into the mix the entire selection of top pair hands, additionally including hands such as King Jack suited, as well as hands like Queen Jack Suited and Jack Ten suited. Additionally, any pocket pair is safe to enter the pot from middle position, providing the pot has not yet been raised (unless a caller or two has also entered the pot AFTER the raise).

Hands to raise or limp from Late Position

From late position, any playable hand will do. However, if the pot has been two or three bet preflop, it is imperative that hands such as Ace Five be discarded, as these hands are often trap hands, which means if you flop an ace, you are often second best on the flop. Generally, you want to raise from late position, especially in instances where action folds around to you, or when players have failed to raise. The aggression from late position can be carried on to the flop with the intention of terminating the hand and taking down the pot.

Playable hands from the Blinds

From the blinds, it is best to look for logical reasons to fold, as you will be out of position for the remaining portion of the hand. The small blind should play around 20 to 25% of the time at most, while the big blind should play around 30-35% of the time when facing a raise. That being said, we are typically looking to play only the best of hands from the blinds.

Success in Texas Holdem starts with preflop discipline. Understanding and respecting position before the flop is the cornerstone of preflop discipline. Possessing standards based on position will keep you out of trouble later as the hand progresses, and will appropriately assist you in growing your bankroll.