Under the Gun (UTG) is a poker term that describes the first player to act in a hand after the big blind—usually in Texas Hold’em or Omaha. It’s a tricky spot because you have to make your decision before anyone else once the cards are dealt.
The name comes from the idea that you’re “under pressure” right away—under the gun—since you have no info about what other players will do after you.
In a 9-handed game, UTG is the player sitting immediately to the left of the big blind. In shorthand, you might also hear terms like UTG+1, UTG+2, etc., which refer to the next seats after UTG.
Because you’re first to act, it’s important to play tight (choose strong hands) in this position.
Playing under the gun means playing cautiously and smart—because you’re stepping into action without seeing what anyone else plans to do.
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