Big Pocket Pairs in Early Position

[cheapsuit]

alright, i think im having trouble getting a handle on playing big pocket pairs (like qq-tt) in early position when an overcard drops on the flop and the pot is multiway. i know that if an A drops and the pot is something like 6 or 7 handed, im most likely beat and should drop to any aggression but i have the most trouble when the pot is something like 3-4 handed and i am sitting on QQ, raised preflop, and an A comes on the flop. i continually try to bully people out of these pots, fold the A even if they have it but people are so intent with staying around with just top pair.

any suggestions or examples as to how you guys/gals properly play these holdings in this situation and in early position?

[utmt40]

In early position. I think I am going to come out firing somewhere between 1/3 and half the pot size bet for a feeler. If I get called or raised alarms go off. If I am called I am checking the turn if I dont him my set. If I am raised I think its a clear fold. Also, limp pre flop with TT and standard raise with JJ or better.

[augie00]

If you raise PF with QQ and get three callers, don't feel bad about check folding when the flop comes AK4. A lot of beginners lose a ton of money hanging around with a hand like that.

[willthethrill]

make a huge preflop bet twice as big as what you normally do. that way u no the only callers have A with a good kick or paint. Now when the flop comes nothing you can take it down easy or when the flop comes with an A the guy may fear you have an A with a better kick and fold if u make a big bet

[Aceshigh7]

Hmm, two responses both assuming the OP is talking about a No-Limit game. He doesn't specify but judging from his post I think he is talking Limit.

I agree with Augie's advice. With several people calling your raise preflop you can be fairly sure that A or K hit at least one of them. No shame in check-folding.