Trying your luck on a poker tournament? Whether you're a newbie or a pro, you will need more than just good luck. Arm yourself with a useful poker tournament strategiy to fatten up your pockets.
Friday-night Poker vs. Poker Tournaments
Playing poker with your buds on Friday nights is one thing. Joining a poker tournament is another. Not only are stakes raised to big bucks, the game shifts into serious mode. If you don't want to go home empty-handed, better wise up one smart poker tournament strategy for different stages of the tournament.
A Poker Tournament Strategy to Use for Beginning of the Tournament
During the early stages, you'll need to build up your stack and establish a solid position. You can't afford risky plays in this stage. Instead, put on a mask of patience. Use this opportunity to get a feel of your opponents' plays. Keep your eyes open and watch every move they make - this will pay off during the later stages.
Don't allow yourself to make big moves - even when your card looks good. Wait out on your opponents' plays and make the most of what's on the table. Be careful not to give your moves away.
A Poker Tournament Strategy For the Middle Stages
Midway through the tournament is when you have to start playing aggressively. Don't wait for your stack to whittle down into a few lousy pieces. Most players tend to keep a tight approach during this stage. Why not cash in on your opponents' hesitations?
But this is not always the case, so it's important that you read their plays before you start raising the stakes. If your opponents start to loosen up at this point, you'll have to keep your risks to a minimum by playing more conservatively.
Now if you were vigilant in watching your opponents' actions in the early stages, the game will be easier to manipulate. Use your observations to your advantage. Knowing who calls a lot, who you can bluff, and whom you need to keep an eye on will determine the amount you will have for the next round.
