Odds, equity and theory
Minimum defence frequency (MDF) in poker
Definition
The share of your range you must continue with against a bet so that the bettor's bluffs cannot profit automatically.
MDF = pot / (pot + bet). If you fold more often than that, any bluff makes money regardless of its cards. It is a guide for the whole range, not a rule for each single hand.
In real games, opponents bluff less than a balanced range would, so against many players you may fold more than the MDF.
Example
Facing a half-pot bet, MDF = 2/3: you should continue with about 67% of your range.
Related terms
- Pot oddsThe ratio between the size of the pot and the cost of a call; it gives the equity you need for a call to break even.
- GTO (Game Theory Optimal)A balanced strategy that cannot be exploited by any opponent strategy, derived from game theory.
- BluffA bet or raise made with a weak hand to make better hands fold.
- Hero callA call with a marginal hand against a big bet because you believe the opponent is bluffing.