Open-ended (poker)

In poker, "open-ended" refers to a specific type of straight draw. More precisely, an open-ended straight draw (often called an "open-ended straight draw," or "OESD") is a hand that needs one of two ranks to complete a five-card straight. These ranks are located at either end of the current four-card sequence.

For example, if a player holds 7-8-9-10, they need either a 6 or a Jack to complete the straight. This is an open-ended straight draw because the straight can be completed at either the lower or higher end of the sequence.

Open-ended straight draws are considered relatively strong draws in poker because they have eight outs (eight cards in the deck that will complete the straight). This gives them a significantly higher probability of being completed compared to draws with fewer outs, such as inside straight draws (also known as gutshot straight draws), which only have four outs. The relative strength of an open-ended straight draw compared to other draws often influences betting strategy.