Table Selection in Poker
Table selection in poker is an
overlooked prerequisite for a successful, winning
strategy no matter what type of poker game you are
playing.
Many players simply dive into a
game before taking the time to look around and
assess what is actually going on. Even seasoned
professionals who already know that table selection
in poker is essential do not properly select the
best table because they tend to get caught up in the
excitement of the game. Nevertheless, if you are
going to invest your bankroll in a poker game, you
need to ascertain what the prospects for getting a
return on that investment is going to be and table
selection in poker is key. This is just plain
common sense, but the first step in winning is
choosing your ground carefully to give you the best
chance of success.
Table selection in poker is
important no matter if you are playing at a live
game or online. If you have the option, here are
some guidelines to help you in choosing the proper
table in poker.
Table Selection Basics
First, what is the playing style of the table
players? Are they aggressive/passive, playing tight
or loose? Avoid tables if they appear to have a
large number of aggressive players as these tend to
be hard to defeat. You may be good enough to beat
them, but you may not be able to overwhelm the
casinos rake. If you are not sure of the players,
take some time and note your potential opponents
before you play them. If you’re still unsure, pass.
Online Table Selection
With an online game, look for
average pot sizes that relate to your bankroll. Just
going for a big pot game is attractive to many
players but such hands will take a heavy toll on a
bankroll if it is not large. You will find yourself
at a distinct disadvantage very quickly. If you’re
playing with the big dog’s make sure you can bite as
well as bark! So, think about the game itself, and
ask yourself, is it for you? Don’t play above your
bankroll or comfort zone and do not feel ashamed to
play down to another lower level. The key here is
to win the long game, not to win in one hand unless
you’re 4 Aces and a King high! Don’t play a game
where the pot size dictates you shouldn’t be playing
there in the very first place.
Other Things to Consider
when Selecting Your Table in Poker
Consider how many players are
at the table, and relate that to your personal
comfort zone and experience. You may play your best
with few players or a larger number. Wherever you
believe you feel the most comfortable and have had
the greatest previous success will determine which
table selection you should make.
The final tip we have for you
with table selection in poker is whether the game is
limit or no-limit. If you are a limit game expert,
stay away from no-limit tables if you are playing
for a profit. No-limit can eat up your bankroll
very fast unless you are experienced and have the
bankroll to stand it. But in the final analysis, it
comes down to how you feel. If you can handle the
roller-coaster of a no-limit game, by all means, go
for it. However, if you are looking for something
new start small and work up. Do not make the
mistake that because you are proficient or even an
expert at one poker form that you will be able to
immediately replicate that success elsewhere.
In the final analysis, table
selection in poker is for you to decide and it is up
to you to use your powers of observation and be
honest with yourself when it comes to table
selection. Whether it is pot size, number of
players, playing style or the game itself…make
objective and controlled decisions based on what you
know. Also use you experience and play to those
strengths before you even touch the chips.
