Lesson overview
Mixed Strategies
Why randomize?
Read this introduction, then sign in to continue the full lesson and exercises.
Inside the full lesson
Why would the 'correct' play sometimes be to do different things with the same hand?
In the full lesson, you work through this scenario with interactive examples.
Solver says: bet 60% of the time, check 40% of the time with Ace-King on this board. Both actions have the SAME EV. So why not just always bet? The answer reveals a deep truth about game theory.
What you’ll learn
- Why pure strategies are exploitable
- How mixing creates unexploitability
- Practical ways to implement mixing
From the full lesson
Why Mixing Exists
Referenced activities and other examples are available in the full lesson after sign-in.
The mathematics of indifference.
When solver shows:
- Bet: 60% frequency, EV = 8.5 BB
- Check: 40% frequency, EV = 8.5 BB
From the full lesson
When Mixing Matters
Referenced activities and other examples are available in the full lesson after sign-in.
Not all spots require mixing.
✅ Mix when:
- EV of actions is similar (within 0.5 BB)
- You're playing against strong, adapting opponents
- The spot is common (your tendencies will be noticed)
- You want to protect other hands in your range
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