Poker Bluffing and Position – why is it important?
In the majority of cases, acting last – after you have had the opportunity to observe what your opponents do – is considered to be a serious advantage. However, when you are bluffing it’s usually better to act first.
If your opponent decides to check and you bet, he will probably notice that you are trying to take advantage of the situation in which he has shown weakness. Therefore, the odds of being called are definitely higher with marginal hands (a very aggressive player may even choose to raise).
Remember that betting from first position gives the impression that you really do have a strong hand. In the end, you are betting into players who could have a truly powerful hand. Your opponent, of course, will realize that and be more eager to give up a marginal hand than he would be if you bet after his check.