This time, I would like to summarize the potential of the AK and how to use it.
AK is one of the most profitable hands, but also one of the most difficult hands post-flop.
Let’s take a look at the potential of AK.
◆AK’s potential◆
◇AKo◇
●Smash hits of 2 pairs or more on the flop are about 4%.
●All pairs on the flop are about 29%, all of which are TPTK (top pair top kicker).
●Gutshot straight draws on the flop are about 11%.
●Nut flush draws on the flop are about 2%.
●A-high on the flop is about 67%.
◇AKs◇
●Smash hits of 2 pairs or more on the flop are about 4.6%.
●All pairs on the flop are about 29%, all of which are TPTK (top pair top kicker)
. ●Gutshot straight draws on the flop are about 11%
. ●Nut flush draws on the flop are about 11%.
●A-high on the flop is about 66%.
The probability of a nut flush draw changes significantly depending on whether or not you have a suited hand.
This difference is significant because having a flush draw makes it easier to apply pressure.
A gutshot straight draw always consists of two overcards + a draw, or a pair + a draw.
This is also a major feature.
All pairs become TPTK, so there is no need to fear overcards after the turn.
Furthermore, boards where AK pairs tend to be CB boards (boards where it’s easy to CB), so it’s easier to get value as your CB is less likely to be trusted by your opponent.
About two-thirds of AK flops are AK high, but you still have two overcards for a 6 out, and with just those 6 outs, you have about a 12% chance of hitting an out on the turn, and about a 24% chance by the river.
And by playing aggressively, especially pre-flop, you can further maximize the potential of AK.
AK is a strong hand that can be played in almost all situations, from 2-bets to 5-bets pre-flop.
AA and KK, which AK fears the most, are blocked by an A and a K, so each becomes a 3-combo.
By playing aggressively pre-flop, you can win the pot without having to fight post-flop, and being aggressive pre-flop can also give you an advantage in post-flop battles.
In this way, AK can be said to be a hand with high potential.
◆How to handle an AK◆
AK is a very strong hand.
If an A or K comes on the flop, it becomes top pair top kicker, making it the strongest hand with one pair.
However, if the flop does not show an A or K, it becomes difficult to play, especially if it is OOP (out of position).
This time, I would like to consider flops where an A or K does not come on.
First, let’s classify flops where the flop does not show a pair into three categories based on the strength of the hand.
1. Good Flop
The hand is 
good.
On this flop, you have a gutshot straight draw, a backdoor nut flush draw, and two overcards that could give you a strong top pair.
On a flop like this, I recommend checking rather than betting.
The reason is that even if your opponent bets in response to your check, their range includes AQ, KQ, and 98, so you may be the favorite. Even if your opponent has a made hand like QJ, you still have plenty of outs. You have plenty of
strength to call your opponent’s bet.
However, if they raise in response to your bet, it becomes very difficult.
2. Not a bad flop
The hand and
flop
You have two overcards and a backdoor draw, but the turn will only give you a pair.
A bet on a flop like this is recommended. While
your opponent’s hand isn’t strong enough to check-call, it’s worth betting because they have few draws in their hand range, and you can easily fold if they raise against your bet.
3. Bad Flop
The hand
is bad.
You only have two overcards, and on a board like this, the preflop calling range is likely to have strong draws or made hands,
and the turn has a lot of bad cards for you.
In this case, it’s best to give up the pot and check-fold.
AK is a very strong hand pre-flop, but depending on the flop it can be a difficult hand to make a decision on.
In such cases, try dividing the flop into several types like this.
