Enter the chance your opponent will fold (%) and the amount you win immediately when they fold (the current pot/dead money, $) into the Calculator. The calculator will evaluate the fold-equity value (the EV component from folds).
Fold Equity Formula
FEV = COF/100 * P
Variables:
- FEV is the fold-equity value (the immediate EV component from folds) ($)
- COF is the chance your opponent will fold (%)
- P is the current pot / dead money you win immediately if the opponent folds ($)
To calculate the fold-equity value, divide the chance your opponent will fold by 100, then multiply by the pot (dead money) you would win immediately if they fold.
How to Calculate Fold Equity?
The following steps outline how to calculate the fold-equity value (the EV from folds).
- First, estimate the chance your opponent will fold (%).
- Next, determine the current pot/dead money you win immediately if they fold ($).
- Next, gather the formula from above = FEV = COF/100 * P.
- Finally, calculate the fold-equity value.
- After inserting the variables and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.
Example Problem :
Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.
chance your opponent will fold (%) = 56
pot / dead money you win if they fold ($) = 1000
Result: FEV = 56/100 × 1000 = $560
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Fold Equity in poker?
Fold equity refers to the value a player gains in a poker hand when they can cause their opponent to fold. In EV terms, it’s the part of your expected value that comes from winning the current pot (dead money) immediately when the opponent folds.
How does the pot size (dead money) affect fold-equity value?
The larger the current pot (dead money) you win when the opponent folds, the larger the fold-equity value for the same fold percentage. For example, 50% folds is worth $50 when the pot is $100, but $250 when the pot is $500.
Can Fold Equity be negative, and what does that indicate?
Fold equity (as a probability) ranges from 0% to 100% and cannot be negative. Likewise, the fold-equity value computed as (fold% × pot) cannot be negative if the pot is non-negative. If you get a negative result, it typically indicates an input or calculation error.
Why is understanding Fold Equity important in poker strategy?
Understanding fold equity is crucial because it helps players make more informed decisions about when to bet or raise. It encourages a strategic approach to betting, emphasizing the importance of not just the cards in hand but also the probabilistic value of getting an opponent to fold.
