Advanced Poker Theory

In part 3 of this guide, we discussed the advanced strategy fundamentals of Texas Hold’em. Now it’s time to convert poker theory and fundamentals into practice and start building an actual gameplan for how you will play at the poker tables. This part is all about developing a core game that is both strategically and tactically sound. The math surrounding poker can get infinitely complex, and even the best players don't understand it on every level. However, the advanced stuff is not necessary at this stage. Just a little understanding of some of the more basic math surrounding the poker game can go a long way towards helping us refine our decisions. The fundamentals of advanced poker theory should only be tackled after you have a firm grasp of basic theory. In fact, learning the basic fundamentals will get you halfway there and allow you to win against opponents who do not understand those fundamentals.

Remember all those things that, as a beginner, we told you never to do? Like playing less-than-great starting hands, raising out of position, calling big-stacked opponents and bluffing like it’s going out of style?

Well, now you’ve learnt the rules, it’s time to start breaking them. Advanced poker is all about shaking it up a bit – doing the unexpected, confusing your opponents and generally getting a bit more creative. And here’s where we’ll guide you and help you really finesse your poker skills.

Advanced Blackjack Theory

While you’re doing that, there are still two key things you’ll need to work on – a head for facts and your feel for the game.

This one’s crucial because, as we know, the numbers don’t lie. As you get into more advanced territory, figures like implied odds, expected outs and correct bet sizes become more important. So you’ll need to practice your number crunching and know when to bring the stats into play.

A lot of the time, it all comes down to instinct. With experience, you’ll start to read your opponents, spot a fish or a maniac, know when someone’s going on tilt, and adapt your play for different situations. This will help you avoid traps, cash in on other people’s mistakes and pick the most profitable games for you.

Advanced Poker Game Theory

But remember, no matter how much of a poker expert you become, the basics still apply. Manage your bankroll, stay calm and, most of all, have fun with it.