Finding the right poker strategy

Just because you’re aware of the value of semi-bluff check-raising with a straight draw, doesn’t mean that each time you execute it you’ll either get someone to fold or be happy to get your money in.

Poker is 100% situation-based and your success at the table will depend on how you apply your knowledge and skill to the players and decisions that you face. What you really don’t want to do is read about floating (calling a continuation bet on the flop with air and aiming to take the hand away on a later street) and then start calling every single flop bet in position. That’s nothing more than being a calling station and you’ll soon see your stack disappear at the tables.

As you approach a strategy article you should always ask yourself two questions and then decide how to apply it to your game.

1.What level of sophistication is this?
This is the first question you should ask yourself after reading a strategy article. If you play $0.50/$1 cash games or below, then getting too involved in learning how to play opponents who may be three- or four-betting light isn’t a great idea as the vast majority of players at this level will play their hands face-up and are unlikely to get too creative when someone has already shown strength.

2. How much does it apply to you?
Is the strategy subject you’re reading about an area of your game that you think is strong or weak? It’s very easy to think you have one part of the game cracked, and miss a nugget of wisdom. It might sound silly but even the best players do it, as the game is a constant learning process.

Practice, practice, practice

Ultimately there’s no replacement for time spent at the tables. The more you play the greater experience you’ll get. And as long as you’re honest with your plays and analysis of situations that you’ve got yourself into, there’s no reason why you can’t improve your game and become a world-beater. (Or learn how to crush $10 sit-and-gos at the very least!)