Mastering PLO Pot Calculations: The Dealer’s Guide to Fast, Accurate “Pot” Bets

Pot-Limit Omaha is one of the most electrifying poker variants, but it’s also the most demanding when it comes to dealer math. When a player announces “Pot,” you must immediately know the maximum legal raise — no hesitations, no mental fog, no slowing the table.

The problem? PLO pots get messy fast. Multiway action, incomplete all-ins, blinds, trails, and rapid-fire bets… even experienced dealers slip. That’s exactly why I built a dedicated PLO training mode into the app: so you can practice the math until it becomes automatic muscle memory.

But first, here’s the core rule you must master:

Pot = 3 × the last bet + the trail + the existing pot

Let’s break the formula down so it finally clicks.

1. Start With the Last Bet

The entire pot raise calculation begins with the amount the player must call.

Example:

Blinds are $1/$2

UTG bets $5

Next player wants to say “Pot”

The number you start with is:

$5

2. Triple It

The fastest shortcut in all of PLO:

Pot raise = 3 × the bet to call

This is the call + the matching bet + the raise portion.

If the bet to call is $5:

3 × $5 = $15

3. Add the Trail

The trail is what the previous bettor already has in front of them beyond the blinds.

Example:

Big Blind = $2

UTG bet = $5

Trail = $2

Add it in.

4. Add the Existing Pot

The pot always includes:

• Blinds

• Antes

• Calls

• Prior-round chips

• Any all-in adjustments

This is where dealers lose track if they’re not trained to mentally track the pot as it grows.

Full Example

Blinds: $1/$2

UTG bets $5

Hijack says “Pot.”

1. Last bet: $5

2. 3 × last bet: $15

3. Trail: $2

4. Pot before action: $8

Final answer:

Pot is $25.

Clear. Fast. Accurate.

A close-up view of a poker table showcasing chips and cards during a game of PLO.

Why Dealers Must Master This

When you can instantly dish out a correct pot calculation:

• Players trust you more

• The game moves at a professional pace

• Floor calls decrease

• You earn more respect — and more tips

• You’re far more prepared for auditions

And that’s exactly where the app comes in.

How the App Helps You Master PLO Faster Than Dealer School

The app includes a dedicated PLO Pot Trainer built specifically for new and aspiring poker dealers.

You’ll be able to:

• Practice dozens of realistic “Pot” scenarios

• Learn to track blinds, bets, trails, and side action

• Get instant feedback on your calculations

• Improve your speed with repetition

• Build the confidence you need at real tables

• Develop the muscle memory live dealing requires

It’s like having a personal dealer school in your pocket — one you can use any time, anywhere.

Whether you’re brand new to dealing or tuning up for a casino audition, the PLO Pot mode removes the guesswork and helps you internalize the math until it’s automatic.

Ready to Deal PLO Like a Pro?

If you want to master pot raises, side pots, hand-reading, and real-time decision-making, this app was built for you.

👉 

Download the Poker Dealer Trainer App

Sharpen your skills, pass auditions, and deal with total confidence.