Node Locking
A solver technique where you fix an opponent's strategy at a decision point to find the best counter-strategy.
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What Is Node Locking?
Rather than running a fully game-theory-optimal solution where both players play unexploitably, node locking lets a solver user manually set one player's frequencies to match observed real-world tendencies, such as always betting or always folding in a spot. The solver then recalculates the optimal exploitative response for the other player. This technique bridges GTO theory and practical exploitative adjustments, and is widely used in advanced poker study.
Examples
By node locking the opponent's turn checking range to always give up, the solver recommended betting nearly 100% of the time.
She used node locking in her solver software to study how to counter a population tendency of over-folding to river overbets.
Strategy Tips
Use node locking to study realistic exploits against tendencies you've actually observed at the tables, rather than purely theoretical GTO play. Combine node locking with tracked opponent statistics for the most accurate adjustments. Be careful not to over-exploit based on small sample sizes, since a locked node reflecting a false read can lead you astray. Node locking is most valuable for intermediate and advanced players already comfortable with baseline solver output.