The Toolbox: Folding

Betting or raising is almost always superior to just calling. When you call, you have only one way to win: Your hand has to be the best hand. Bet or raise, however, and there are suddenly two ways to come out on top: Your opponent may fold (sometimes, on your better days, with a hand that's got you beat); and even if he doesn't, you may wind up with the best hand. This is the tool you use when the situation requires aggression, a mind-set that poker has a funny way of rewarding.