Poker is a game of incomplete information, and poker range construction is the framework that helps you make profitable decisions despite that uncertainty.
Instead of putting an opponent on one exact hand, strong players think in terms of ranges—the collection of possible hands an opponent can have in a given situation.
Two of the most important concepts in modern poker strategy are polarized ranges and linear ranges. Understanding the difference between them—and knowing when to use each—will dramatically improve your hand reading, bet sizing, and overall results in both cash games and tournaments.
This guide explains these ideas in a practical, human way, with real poker logic you can apply immediately.
What Is Poker Range Construction?
Range construction refers to how you choose which hands to play and how to group them together based on position, action, opponent tendencies, and stack depth. Every time you open raise, call, bet, or check, your range changes.
A range is not random. It is shaped by:
Your position at the table
Your opponent’s range
Stack sizes and bet sizing
Whether you are playing against tight players or aggressive opponents
Within this framework, ranges usually fall into one of two categories: linear or polarized.
What Is a Linear Range in Poker?
A linear range is made up of hands that follow a clear strength hierarchy—from the strongest hands down to medium strength hands—without big gaps.
Key Characteristics of a Linear Range
Includes premium hands, strong hands, and solid medium hands
Excludes very weak hands and most bluffs
Often used when betting or raising for value
Performs well against wide or loose opponent ranges
Example of a Linear Range
Imagine open raising from middle position in a cash game:
AA–TT
AK, AQ, AJ
KQ, QJ
Some suited connectors
This range consists of hands that are all reasonably strong and play well postflop. There is no extreme separation between value hands and bluffs.
When to Use Linear Ranges
Linear ranges are best when:
You expect calls from worse hands
Your opponent’s range is wide
You want to apply pressure with many strong but non-premium hands
You are playing against weaker or passive opponents
Linear ranges are extremely common in preflop ranges, especially for open raising and 3-betting against loose players.
What Is a Polarized Range in Poker?
A polarized range contains two distinct groups of hands:
Very strong value hands (the strongest hands in your range)
Bluffs or semi-bluffs (hands with little showdown value but good equity, like a flush draw)
Key Characteristics of a Polarized Range
No medium strength hands
Clear separation between value and bluffs
Designed to apply maximum pressure
Works well with a large bet
Example of a Polarized Range
Suppose you make a big river bet:
Value: sets, straights, top two pair
Bluffs: missed flush draw, busted straight draws
Notice what’s missing: hands like second pair or weak top pair. Those hands are usually better suited to checking or calling rather than betting big.
When to Use Polarized Ranges
Polarized ranges are optimal when:
Using a large bet or overbet
Your opponent’s range is narrow and capped
Medium strength hands cannot comfortably bet for value
You want to force tough decisions
This is why polarized ranges are common in turn and river situations, especially in aggressive, solver-based strategies.
Polarized vs Linear: The Core Differences
| Concept | Linear Range | Polarized Range |
|---|---|---|
| Hand Strength | Strong to Medium | Very Strong + Bluffs |
| Bet Sizing | Small to Medium | Large Bets |
| Bluff Frequency | Low | High |
| Medium Strength Handsd | Included | Excluded |
| Best Use | Value Betting | Maximum Pressure |
How Ranges Affect Bet Sizing
Your bet sizing should always reflect your range construction.
Linear ranges perform best with smaller bets that allow worse hands to continue.
Polarized ranges thrive with larger bets that pressure your opponent’s range and force folds.
For example:
Betting 30–50% pot often represents a linear range
Betting 75–150% pot usually represents polarized ranges
This connection between ranges and sizing is critical for credible hand reading.
Practical Range Construction Tips
Think in ranges, not specific hands
Ask what your range looks like, not just what you’re holding.
Match range to opponent tendencies
Tight players fold too much—polarized strategies shine. Loose players call too wide—linear ranges print value.
Avoid merged ranges unless intentional
Merged ranges combine strong and medium hands but are often misused by inexperienced players.
Respect street progression
Linear ranges dominate preflop. Polarized ranges become more common as the board develops.
Final Thoughts
Mastering poker range construction is a turning point in your development as a player. Knowing the difference between what is a linear range in poker and what is a polarized range in poker allows you to choose better hands, size your bets correctly, and exploit your opponent’s range with confidence.
When you stop guessing and start thinking in ranges, poker becomes less about luck—and more about logic.
FAQ: Poker Ranges Explained
What is the biggest mistake players make with polarized ranges?
Over-bluffing without enough value hands. A polarized range must stay balanced.
Can beginners use polarized ranges effectively?
Yes, but they should start with linear strategies and add polarization gradually.
Are polarized ranges only for advanced players?
No. Understanding when to polarize is more important than complexity.
