This is 1st level maths in poker. Some may aruge that to play at a reasonable level, you can survive simply on this knowledge and experience. In truth alot of good players don't consider themselves mathematical players but intuitatively make good mathematical decision through experience.
The next level in Maths after this is implied odds calculating how much you could possibly win from someone if your hand improves.
on a
flop, if you hit your spade how much more could you potentially make on later street from your opponent, can be figured into the odds calculation when calling a bet.
Reverse implied odds- How much you could lose on later streets by calling a bet and then be forced to call another bet, when your hand is unlikely to improve.
on a
board where your hand is unlikely to get better and may well be behind.
Also in tournaments there are tournament equity decision where the payout structure dictates a different play then normal.
Example: Normal sng on the bubble
Calling an all in from a bigger stack with
can often be a major mistake even when you know your hand is likely to be ahead.
To be honest its a massive subject and i cannot hope to get anywhere near explaining things in one post. These examples are probably not the best but hopefully it gives you something to think about.
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