Strategy

What is Levelling in Poker? Definition & Examples

Here's a clear definition with real-hand context, plus how it connects to the rest of your strategy.

Quick answer

Levelling — Trying to outthink an opponent by guessing what they think you’ll do.

In more detail

Level 1: my cards. Level 2: their cards. Level 3: what they think I have. Level 4: what they think I think they have. Diminishing returns past Level 2.

Common questions

What does Levelling mean in poker?

Level 1: my cards. Level 2: their cards. Level 3: what they think I have. Level 4: what they think I think they have. Diminishing returns past Level 2.

Related terms

Bluff

Betting or raising with a weak hand to make opponents fold.

Check-Raise

Checking, then raising after an opponent bets.

Fold Equity

The value gained from the chance opponents fold to your bet.

GTO

A mathematically unexploitable strategy.

New to poker? Start with our preflop strategy guide and the free TAG cheatsheet.