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Glossary Term
Fourth Street
Fourth Street
Used In: Poker
Introduction
In poker, particularly in games like Texas Hold'em and Omaha, the term “fourth street” refers to the fourth community card dealt face-up on the table. This card is dealt after the “turn” round, which follows the initial two hole cards dealt to each player and the first three community cards, known as the “flop.” The fourth street is a pivotal moment in the game, as it can significantly alter the strength of players' hands and influence their strategies moving forward.
The fourth street is important because it provides another opportunity for players to improve their hands. For example, if a player has a pair on the flop, the fourth street may give them a set, a straight, or a flush, depending on what is revealed. It adds an additional layer of complexity to the game, forcing players to reassess the strength of their hands and adjust their betting strategies. The decision-making process becomes more critical as players consider both their own hand and the potential hands of their opponents.
Strategically, the fourth street can prompt players to either increase their bets, fold, or play more cautiously. The betting round that follows the fourth street is often more intense, as players now have a clearer view of their chances to win. Some players may use this opportunity to bluff, while others may choose to play more conservatively, depending on how the fourth street affects their hand. Understanding how to react to the fourth street is key to mastering the game and making the most of each hand.
In Depth Look
Also known as the “turn” in Texas Hold'em and Omaha, is a critical moment that can drastically impact the direction of a hand. After the flop, where the first three community cards are dealt, players have a better idea of what they could potentially be holding. The fourth street provides an additional piece of information, revealing the fourth community card that all players can use to make or improve their hands. This card often shifts the dynamics of the game, as it can change a player’s chances of winning and create new possibilities for both strong hands and strong bluffs.
One of the key strategic elements surrounding the fourth street is the change in odds it introduces. For example, a player with two pair on the flop may now have a chance to make a straight or a flush depending on what the fourth street reveals. The odds of completing a hand become more apparent at this point, and players must assess whether they are still in contention or if their chances of winning have diminished. With the added knowledge of the fourth street, players must make decisions based not only on their hand but also on the community cards and the potential hands their opponents may be holding. This level of uncertainty adds to the complexity of poker, as players must weigh the risks and rewards of continuing in the hand.
The betting round after the fourth street is often more intense than previous rounds. This is because the fourth card has added clarity, and the potential for stronger hands is now more evident. Players may decide to raise, call, or fold based on how the fourth street has affected their hand. For instance, someone who was previously drawing to a flush might now have completed it, and they may raise to build the pot. Conversely, someone with a weak hand may decide to fold, knowing that the odds are no longer in their favor. Understanding how to use the fourth street to your advantage, whether it’s for value betting or bluffing, is crucial to mastering poker strategy.
Mechanics
The mechanics of the fourth street begin after the “flop” round, where the first three community cards are dealt face-up. Once the betting for the flop has concluded, the dealer reveals the fourth community card, known as the “turn” or “fourth street.” All players still in the hand can see this card, and it’s placed face-up on the table alongside the flop. At this point, players use the fourth street along with their hole cards to evaluate their hands and make decisions based on the improved possibilities.
Following the reveal of the fourth street, a new betting round begins. Players can check, bet, raise, or fold, depending on how the fourth card affects their hand. If a player has made a strong hand or improved their hand, such as completing a straight or flush, they may decide to raise or bet for value. If the fourth street hasn't helped their hand, they may choose to check or fold. The betting continues until all players have either folded or matched the highest bet, and then the game proceeds to the fifth street, or “river,” where the final community card is dealt.
Illustrated Example
Let’s look at an example where the fourth street significantly impacts a hand. Imagine you're playing Texas Hold'em with the following scenario:
-
Your hand: 9♠ 10♠ (You have two spades and are hoping for a flush or straight)
-
Flop: 7♠ Q♠ 3♦ (You have a flush draw with two spades)
-
Fourth Street (Turn): 6♠ (Now you’ve completed a flush with five spades)
At this point, the fourth street has given you a flush, which is a strong hand. You now have five spades: 9♠ 10♠ 7♠ Q♠ 6♠. Your next move is crucial, as you should now consider betting or raising based on the strength of your hand and the possible hands your opponents might have. If your opponents are holding higher spades or pairs that could be completed on the river, you might want to continue betting to build the pot or force them to fold. On the other hand, if you feel they are likely to have a higher hand, you may choose to slow-play and check.
Here’s a table illustrating the hand progression:
| Street | Your Hand | Community Cards | Best Hand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Flop | 9♠ 10♠ | — | — |
| Flop | 9♠ 10♠ | 7♠ Q♠ 3♦ | Flush Draw (9♠ 10♠) |
| Fourth Street | 9♠ 10♠ | 7♠ Q♠ 3♦ 6♠ | Flush (9♠ 10♠ 7♠ Q♠ 6♠) |
Player Perspective
From the player's perspective, the fourth street is a crucial moment that can dramatically shift the course of the hand. After the flop, players are already assessing their chances based on the first three community cards. When the fourth street is dealt, it provides new information that could either improve a player's hand or make them re-evaluate their position. If the fourth street completes a draw, such as a flush or straight, it could put a player in a strong position, prompting them to bet or raise. Conversely, if the fourth street doesn't help their hand, they may need to decide whether to continue betting with a weaker hand or fold, depending on the strength of their opponents' possible hands.
Players also need to consider how their opponents are reacting to the fourth street. If an opponent suddenly raises or bets aggressively, it might indicate that they've completed a strong hand with the new card, such as a set or a straight. A player must then weigh the risk of continuing versus folding, based on the potential for completing their own hand on the river. The fourth street is where strategic decisions become more nuanced, as players must take into account not only the community cards but also their opponents' tendencies and the size of the pot. Making the right decision at this point is often what separates successful players from those who struggle with the game.
Conclusion
The fourth street in poker plays a pivotal role in shaping the outcome of a hand. It provides players with additional information that can either improve or weaken their hand, making it a critical point in the game. Understanding how to leverage the fourth street, whether by betting aggressively when you hit a strong hand or folding when the card doesn’t help, is essential for making informed decisions. This card often shifts the dynamic of the hand, and how players respond to it can determine their success or failure in the round.
Mastering the strategy surrounding the fourth street requires a keen understanding of odds, hand potential, and reading opponents. It’s a moment where many hands are decided, and a wrong move can lead to a costly mistake. As the game progresses, each new community card adds complexity and nuance, with the fourth street being no exception. By paying attention to both your own hand and your opponents' possible outcomes, you can navigate this phase effectively, increasing your chances of securing a win.
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Author
Branimir Ivanov | Senior News Contributor