Poker is a game of skill, strategy, and luck. In this article, we will delve into the world of poker hands, exploring the odds of getting certain types of hands and the rules that govern their ranking.

Odds of Getting Certain Hands

Before cards are dealt, the odds of getting a straight in any given hand is 1 in 254.8 (0.3925%). If you get dealt two connected cards, those odds get a fair bit better, with a 1 in 77.5 chance of hitting a straight on the flop.

The odds of flopping three-of-a-kind in any given hand is 1 in 47.3 (2.1128%), and if you get dealt a pocket pair, those odds get even better, with a 1 in 7.5 chance of hitting three-of-a-kind on the flop.

For two-pair hands, the odds are 1 in 21 (4.7539%), while one-pair hands have an odds of 1 in 2.37 (42.27%). Finally, no pair/high card has an odds of 1 in 1.995 (50.1177%).

Poker Hand Rankings

The poker hand rankings are as follows:

• One pair beats no pair.
• Two pair beats one pair.
• Three of a kind beats two pair.
• A straight beats three of a kind.
• A flush beats a straight.
• A full house beats a flush.
• Four of a kind beats a full house.
• A straight flush beats four of a kind.
• A royal flush beats all other hands.

Suit Rankings

In most poker games, including Texas Hold'em, no suit is considered "higher" or better than any other. However, some other poker games do rank suits, with the most common ranking being: spades ♠, hearts ♥, diamonds ♦, clubs ♣.

Straight/Flush/Full House

A straight is five cards in a row, such as 9♠ 8♥ 7♣ 6♦ 5♠. A flush is five cards of the same suit, such as K♠ J♠ 8♠ 6♠ 4♠. A full house is when you hold both three-of-a-kind and a pair, like A♠ A♣ A♥ 7♦ 7♣.

Who Wins: Flush vs Straight

A flush wins versus a straight, because the probability of hitting a flush is lower than that of hitting a straight.

Who Wins: Three of a Kind vs Straight

A straight wins versus three of a kind, since three of a kind only beats two pair, one pair, and high card hands.

Tiebreaker Rules

If multiple players have two pair, the player with the better high pair wins. If multiple players have the same highest pair, the player with the better low pair wins. And if multiple players have the exact same two pair, the player with the better kicker wins.

Final Thoughts

Poker is a game of skill and strategy, and understanding the odds and rules of different hands can give you an edge at the table. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, this article has provided a comprehensive guide to poker hand rankings and odds.