TAG (tight-aggressive)
A playing style that enters few pots but plays them aggressively with bets and raises. It is the classic recommended style for beginners and remains the backbone of most winning strategies.
Frequently asked questions
What is a TAG in poker?
A tight-aggressive player: selective about which hands they enter with, and aggressive once in — raising rather than calling, betting rather than checking. It is the default profile of most winning players.
Why does tight-aggressive work?
Because it combines two edges: better hands than the opposition on average, and the initiative that makes opponents fold. The tightness limits mistakes, the aggression collects the pots nobody wants to contest.
What are a TAG's weaknesses?
Predictability and missed value. A straightforward TAG gets read quickly, and gives up too many small pots by folding rather than defending. The modern answer is a wider, more balanced version — which is where TAG shades into LAG.