Solver

What Is a Poker Solver?

A poker solver is software that computes GTO strategies by iterating through Game Tree branches to find a Nash Equilibrium solution. A solver determines the mathematically optimal play for every hand in every situation, producing strategies that cannot be exploited. Solvers have revolutionized poker, transforming the game from one dominated by intuition into a rigorous, mathematically grounded discipline.

How Solvers Work

Solvers use counterfactual regret minimization (CFR) to simulate millions of games between two theoretical players. Each player starts with random strategies and gradually adjusts them to minimize regret. After enough iterations, the strategies converge toward Nash equilibrium where neither player can improve by unilaterally changing their approach.

The output is a set of mixed strategies: for each hand in each situation, the solver specifies how often to bet, check, call, raise, or fold. A solver might say to bet A-Q on a K-9-4 flop 70% of the time and check 30% at a specific size.

What Solvers Cannot Do

Solvers have important limitations:

• They assume perfect opponents: Real opponents have leaks, but the solver does not model them
• They require simplified inputs: You choose bet sizes, stack depths, and ranges. Different inputs produce different solutions
• They solve specific spots: A solver output applies to one scenario at a time

Practical Example

You want to study button versus big blind on a Q-J-7 two-tone flop. You input standard preflop ranges and two bet sizes. The solver returns a strategy for every hand, showing that on this connected board, the button should check around 45% and bet the rest using a mix of sizes. This scenario-specific analysis is what makes solvers invaluable.

Study Solvers with ThinkGTO

Solver+ brings solver power to your mobile device, letting you explore outputs for thousands of scenarios without a desktop. Download Solver+ on the App Store to start studying on the go. For a step-by-step guide, read How to Use a Poker Solver Effectively.