MDF, in the world of poker, is like a protective shield for players. It’s the minimum percentage of time you should call or raise to prevent your opponents from exploiting you by bluffing too much. In essence, it’s a fundamental concept that helps players strike a balance between folding too often and calling too frequently in response to aggressive and competent, balanced opponents when holding a medium-strength hand.
Calculating MDF is quite simple; however, when calculating, be sure to understand that the pot size is the size of the pot before villain bets:
- MDF = Initial Pot Size / (Initial Pot Size + Bet Size)
Our simple MDF calculator below reveals your minimum defense frequency; all you need to input is the initial pot size and the bet sizing you’re facing.
Poker MDF Calculator
Minimum Defense Frequency (MDF):
Minimum Defense Frequency (MDF) in poker represents the minimum percentage of hands you should continue with when facing a bet, to prevent your opponent from profitably bluffing. It is calculated based on the initial pot size and the bet size.
Alton Hardin