In hold'em, aggression is usually rewarded, and a free card is sometimes part of that reward. In this month’s article, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of getting and giving free cards post-flop. But first, let’s start with how to get free cards.

You have J♣-10♣ and a weak player from mid-position bets out pre-flop. You have position over him and decide to raise. He calls. The flop comes 3♣-6♦-7♠ – a harmless flop and one that certainly does not help you much. Your pre-flop aggression may be rewarded here, as a weak opponent would yield to the pre- flop aggressor and check to you, thus giving you a free card.

Now, you could fire out and try to take the pot down and hope you don’t get called.