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What Is Fast Play in Poker? When to Bet Big Hands Fast (and Why It Works)

Fast play is exactly what it sounds like. You bet or raise with a strong hand instead of checking, or flat calling and hoping someone catches up enough to pay you off later.

If you mostly play online, fast play also has a bankroll side to it. Hands move quickly, emotions move even quicker, and sometimes you reload or switch games mid-session.

Most importantly, fast play is a tool. Here’s when and how quick betting makes you more money than waiting for others to do your bidding.

Fast Play vs. Slow Play

The key difference is intent.