How to count outs
An out is a card that beats you if the dealer holds it. The dealer has two cards, so each out is one more chance they have you beat. A card that only ties you is not an out.
- Find your hand. Your best five from your two cards and the board. If the board plays, you only have the board.
- Bigger pairs. Each board card the dealer could pair to beat you is worth 3 outs, one for each suit left.
- Higher cards. When your cards barely play, a dealer card that outkicks yours is an out too. Check every rank above your best card.
- Straights and flushes. Four to a straight or four of a suit on the board adds those cards. Don't count a card twice.
Then apply the rule: under 21 outs, bet 1x; 21 or more, fold. It is the river rule for Ultimate Texas Hold'em and Heads Up Hold'em, and you only use it when you have nothing of your own. Any hidden pair is a bet. Our test of the rule against the exact count is on the odds page.
Practice it in a real hand: Ultimate Texas Hold'em or Heads Up Hold'em.