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Handling Variance Like a Pro
Variance is an inevitable part of poker, especially in tournament play where the stakes are high, and the fields are large. You’re going to experience the highs of winning big pots and the lows of busting on a bad beat. The key is to understand that these swings are natural and to stay focused on making the best possible decisions over the long term.
One strategy to manage variance is to focus on maintaining a consistent approach, even when you’re on a downswing. This means sticking to your pre-flop ranges, not overreacting to bad beats, and avoiding the temptation to chase losses with reckless play. Remember, each hand is independent of the last, so don’t let the outcome of one affect how you play the next.
Another important aspect is adjusting your strategy based on the tournament structure. In faster-paced tournaments, variance is higher because the blinds increase quickly, forcing players to take more risks. In these situations, be prepared to play more aggressively when you have a strong hand, and tighten up when you’re in marginal spots.
By embracing variance and managing it with a calm, calculated approach, you’ll find that your results improve over time. Poker is a marathon, not a sprint, and those who manage the swings effectively are the ones who come out on top.
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