An open raise is the first voluntary raise in a pot. The key concept is not a magic size—it is how your range changes as fewer players remain behind.
Position drives range width
Early position must survive more possible strong hands behind, so a disciplined range is generally tighter. Late position can open more hands because fewer opponents remain and position after the flop is more likely.
Choose a consistent baseline size
Many games use relatively small open sizes online and somewhat larger sizes live. Instead of copying one number everywhere, notice how often players call, how deep stacks are, and whether your size creates an awkwardly multiway pot.
Do not change size only because your hand is strong
If you always raise larger with premium hands and smaller with speculative hands, observant opponents receive information before the flop. A relatively consistent sizing system is easier to execute.
Limping is not automatically forbidden
Some live tables contain unusual conditions where over-limping or limping can be reasonable. Beginners benefit from a raise-or-fold baseline because it simplifies decisions, but strategy should respond to the actual game.