What Makes Some Hands Better Than Others?

Cards that are of the same suit-a condition we'll call suited-have a better chance of making flushes, while consecutive (or near-consecutive) cards-connectors-are more likely to make straights. Suited connectors are even better, increasing your odds of making a straight, flush, or, on rare occasions, a straight flush. Hands that incorporate both hole cards are generally stronger than hands that use only one, as you're less likely to end up in a tie with an opponent, forcing you to split the pot