Lesson 1

The Hand Chart (RFI)

Stop guessing. Know exactly which hands to open-raise with.

The biggest mistake beginners make is playing too many hands. The fix? The RFI (Raise First In) Chart.

An RFI chart tells you: "If nobody has bet yet, play these hands (by raising) and fold everything else."

Pairs (22+)

2h2c

Playable from almost any position.

Big Cards (AK, AQ)

AsKd

Powerhouses. Always play.

Suited Connectors

8h7h

Great potential, best in Late Position.

Trash (K7o, J4o)

Ks7d

FOLD. Do not touch.

Key Takeaways

  • Tight is Right (for beginners).
  • Use a chart until you memorize it.
  • Never just 'Limp' (call 1 blind). Raise or Fold.

⚠️ Common Mistakes

  • Playing 'any ace' or 'any picture card'.
  • Playing hands just because they are suited.
Worked Example
You (Middle Position)
Ks7h

BOLD FOLD. It looks like a King, but if you hit a King, usually someone has a better King and you lose a lot of money ("Dominated").

Hands that beat you
KdQs
AcKh

Knowledge Check

Test your understanding to complete this lesson.

Question 1 of 2

What generally should you do with K-7 offsuit?