Operation 400NL by 01/08

I am not going to take summer classes. I am doing lousy in school anyways because of poker, so i figure that i probably need to pick one or the other. It obviously made sense to choose poker.

I figure that even though i still have to work 32 hours a week that i can get 30 hours a week in playing poker. I have little trouble sitting on my ass all day and keeping a clear head. I don't even have to withdraw any money from my poker account since i will still be working anyways to cover rent, food, etc.

I figure i will need ~14k to have a sufficient roll for 400NL, and need 2-3months to become a solid winner at that limit. So, i need to get there by September. That means that in the next (April, May, June, July, August... 5!) 5 months i have to make 5k to clear 100NL then 9k at 200NL.

I have a slightly larger than 3k roll on Full Tilt right now, and cleared all my other accounts(Pokerstars, Absolute) to either pay tuition or rent. That leaves me ~$600 more to plug into my Full Tilt account, so overall i need to make 10.5k in the next 9 months playing poker to reach my goal for 400NL. My confidence is quite high right now, since i just increased my roll by 1k on Full Tilt in the last 4k hands (long session last night).

I don't know quite how 200NL will go, so i will post some numbers when i get there. Until i get there i will post hands from 100NL.

I want to play poker full time at least for a couple of years. As of right now, i do plan on also going to school part time while i play poker full time to get a 4 year degree. But, for a while at least i would like to put some serious time into improving my game and achieving a level of proficiency that would allow me to make it a comfortable living.

I originally had some numbers projecting weekly incomes for playing poker. I took them down because i kind of realized that sometimes variance doesn't settle itself out in a week. Or in a month, or longer (read Irisheyes blog last night - 041307).

I am willing to put in the time and energy into becoming a very profitable poker player. I hope i can maintain the discipline and the focus.

Once i play 15k hands of 400NL, i will consider the operation a success!

GL man. I'm looking forward to following this.

Dropped ~$150 over 650 or so hands.
I ran 16/10/3.2 over this session. I have dropped my VPIP a ton since i added more tables (for me, i think this was good).

I made some bad plays...

FullTiltPoker Game #2183543721: Table Anasazi - $0.50/$1

Hero: ($100)
Villain: ($171.15)
7 other players

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [7c 7s]
3 folds
Hero: raises to $3.50
Villain: raises to $12
4 folds
Hero: calls $8.50
*** FLOP *** [2c Td Tc]
2 checks
*** TURN *** [2c Td Tc] [Jc]
2 checks
*** RIVER *** [2c Td Tc Jc] [6c]
Hero: checks
Villain: bets $25.50
Hero: calls $25.50

I wonder how often he would check behind w/ out a flush. I think he would overbet/ shove with a FH. So, i was only beating a bluff, which i guess he might even do with a larger pair so this call totally sucked.

and

FullTiltPoker Game #2183364671: Table Underhill - $0.50/$1

Chump: ($89.50)
Villain: ($60.40)
Hero: ($120.65)

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [Kd Ks]
1 fold
Hero: raises to $3
Chump: calls $3
5 folds
*** FLOP *** [Js Qd 2h]
Hero: bets $6.60
Chump: folds
Villain: calls $6.60
*** TURN *** [Js Qd 2h] [7s]
Hero: bets $13
Villain: raises to $30
Hero: raises to $86

I don't think he calls flop and raises the turn except with A-Q sometimes. Looks like Q-J or a set. I think i should have let this hand go.

This hand was funny [Glad they were short stacked]...

FullTiltPoker Game #2183600610: Table Round Castle - $0.50/$1

Suckoutament: ($29.65)
Villain: ($32.35)
Hero: ($98.50)

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [Ah Ac]
3 folds
Suckoutaments: raises to $4
1 fold
Villain: raises to $7
2 folds
Hero: raises to $13
Suckoutaments: calls $9
Villain: raises to $32.35, and is all in
Hero: calls $19.35
Suckoutament: calls $16.65, and is all in
Villain: [As Ad]
Hero: [Ah Ac]
Suckoutament: [8s 8h]
*** FLOP *** [9h Jd 4d]
*** TURN *** [9h Jd 4d] [Ts]
*** RIVER *** [9h Jd 4d Ts] [8c]

Overall, i think that i played okay and just ran into some bad variance. I basically posted this for the A-A hand and to get this blog started. I am trying to play at least 1 hour a day.

Essentially breakeven over 500 hands. Technically, i lost $8...

Ran 17/12 (glad i am still playing tighter than before)

But, i was oversetted once (2-2 vs A-A)
But, i did stack an overpair with 8-8 flopped set

I did not get action with my 2 A-A and K-K (took the blinds, some limpers)

3 bet A-K IP 2x. both times opponents called preflop, and c/c flop. Both times we went to showdown (unimproved) and opp's showed Q-Q. idk if i will 3bet A-K anymore against most opponents anymore. No one seems to respect my large flop c-bet (3/4PSB).

Floated opponent on the flop with air, intending to steal on the turn. He had reraised my CO steals 2 of the last 3 orbits. Unfortunately, he must've had a hand since he pot committed himself on the turn with a big bet. I think this was dumb (floating flop against PF reraise, lol if I am c-betting against myself maybe this is +EV ). Won't be floating like this anymore unless i have large sample size on an opponent that shows he will 3bet lightly.

My best good news was that i made some nice reads and caught a couple of river bluffs. This was my favorite, because it was for the most money.

FullTiltPoker Game #2190111014: Table Camden Rose - $0.50/$1

Hero: ($98.50)
Villain: ($221)
Donator: ($35.40)
6 other players

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [As Ks]
Hero: raises to $3
2 folds
Villain: calls $3
2 folds
Donator: calls $3
2 folds
*** FLOP *** [Td Jc 5c]
Hero: bets $6.60
Villain: calls $6.60
Donator: folds
*** TURN *** [Td Jc 5c] [4c]
2 checks
*** RIVER *** [Td Jc 5c 4c] [3s]
Hero: checks
Villain: bets $22
Hero: calls $22

Villain: shows [Qc Kh] (King Queen high)
Hero: shows [As Ks] (Ace King high)
Hero wins the pot ($64.70) with Ace King high

And some other standard donk bluff bets. Hopefully i can get in closer to 800 hands in tomorrow night.

Weird session tonight. Up ~$60 over ~700 hands. This included stacking my opponents three times!

I lost a ton to c-bets that got raised. I think i got outplayed tonight.
I also lost with the nut flush to a rivered full house. Sick call, but i was getting around 4:1.
I lost a couple of AI races PF (J-J, 10-10 v A-K (opp's had 25BB stacks))

I did a good job trapping weak opponents

Once it was with a flopped full house. I pretended to price in chasing staight/flush draws, and when the straight came in on the river and villain went nuts i just shoved and he instacalled. lol

I also had A-A, trapped a 4bettor preflop who had A-K (thought that might be amusing to some people who read by A-K post - i learned a lot from it).

And then a standard flopped set raise until it all got in. It was closer than usual since villain had two pair + flush draw + straight draw. Blank on the river and i doubled up.

I got a friend who is finally interested in playing poker seriously to sign up here at FTR. I gave him some money to start playing microstakes ring games @ 10NL. So, that was a plus today too!

Long session. 2400 hands, down $220.

I actually had someone oversetted, but they were quite cautious and i only got half of his stack in. I caught a guy donk bluffing his whole stack on the flop after calling my 4bet preflop with K-K.

My aggression factor also continues to increase (now nearly 3.50).

But, i felt like i was just getting all my c-bets c/r'd. I did a lousy job of adjusting to the table conditions. I ought to have switched at some tables. I have a lot to think about for improvement for my next session.

I would like some comments on this hand. What do you think villan is holding on this hand?

FullTiltPoker Game #2204478655: Table Deerfoot - $0.50/$1

Hero: ($138.85)
Villan: ($95)
7 other stacks

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [Kc Kh]
4 folds
Hero: raises to $4
1 fold
Villan: calls $4
2 folds

*** FLOP *** [5c Th Tc]
Hero: bets $6.60
Villan: calls $6.60
*** TURN *** [5c Th Tc] [6h]
Hero: bets $18
Villan: calls $18
*** RIVER *** [5c Th Tc 6h] [8s]
Hero: bets $70

I played as this hand terribly. Any suggestions for the flop? How do you play the river?

FullTiltPoker Game #2205336479: Table Dronberger - $0.50/$1

Villan: ($95)
Hero: ($124.55)
6 other stacks

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [Th Td]
Hero: raises to $3
2 folds
Villan: calls $3
4 folds
*** FLOP *** [5h 6h 8h]
Hero: bets $4.60
Villan: raises to $12
Hero: calls $7.40
*** TURN *** [5h 6h 8h] [4h]
Hero: checks
Villan: bets $20
Hero: calls $20
*** RIVER *** [5h 6h 8h 4h] [8c]
Hero: checks

I hate villan's turn raise. But, do i have to shove?

FullTiltPoker Game #2205643210: Table Winery Ridge - $0.50/$1

Hero: ($222.50)
Villan: ($105.30)
6 other stacks

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [Qc Ad]
2 folds
Hero: raises to $3.50
Villan: calls $3.50
4 folds
*** FLOP *** [Td 5c Qh]
Hero: bets $5.10
Villan: raises to $15.10
Hero: calls $10
*** TURN *** [Td 5c Qh] [Qs]
Hero: bets $14
Villan: raises to $44
Hero: raises to $170.70

I am honestly not worried about how things are going so far. I am not actually quitting my job until i become a winner at 400NL, so as far as i am concerned i just have to keep playing hands and studying until i achieve my goal.

Good news:

$229.10 in RB this week!

Although the bonuses are quite juicy, I am not depositing again on FullTilt. Personally, i think they are turning a blind eye to my new account since i am logging so many hands. I don't want to give them a reason to close my account.

I spent some time reading and studying poker after my marathon session (relatively speaking). I also went out to eat with my brother. After a little break, i thought about playing 200NL. I just threw on $600 or so from Absolute Poker, and my BR is probably around 3.4-3.5k. With over 15 buy ins, i figured i could take some shots and take a break from 8 tabling. I decided to 4 table 200NL for a little while, i wasn't sure how long i was going to play when i started.

My favorite hand of my mini session was this:

FullTiltPoker Game #2206438103: Table Broadbent - $1/$2

Hero: ($228.70)
DonkeyKong$226.85)
Heehaw: ($142.20)

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [Qs As]
2 folds
Hero: raises to $7
DonkeyKong: calls $7
Heehaw: calls $7
2 folds
*** FLOP *** [9s Ad Kc]
Hero: bets $13
DonkeyKong: folds
HeeHaw: calls $13
*** TURN *** [9s Ad Kc] [6s]
Hero: checks
Heehaw: checks
*** RIVER *** [9s Ad Kc 6s] [8s]
Hero: bets $36
Heehaw: calls $36
*** SHOW DOWN ***
Hero shows [Qs As] (a flush, Ace high)
Heehaw mucks (Had Kh 4h)
Hero wins the pot ($119) with a flush, Ace high

I liked my turn check, since i figured villan must've figured i had lead the flop with a pocket pair/air when i gave up on the turn. The large river bet was intended to look like a bluff, and he paid me off.

The session was like 1/2 hour, but it brought me back to even after the session i dragged myself through earlier.

120 hands, +$245

I am considering trying 200NL for 4-5k hands and see if i can maintain a similar ptBB/100 (right now 4ptBB/100 @ 100NL). I suppose the weekend would be the best time to get my feet wet at 200NL on FullTilt.

Playing less tables allowed me to focus more on hand analysis, bet sizing, taking more detailed player notes, etc. I have a lot of room for improvement in these areas of my game, and i figure i will have to be able to do all of these things well before i can become a winning player at 400NL.

Another micro session. 120 hands for +$40.

I ran into a real tough spot with pocket jacks. I think calling on the flop might have been better, and then folding to a bet on the turn. Any other advice on how i could have avoided this?

FullTiltPoker Game #2209654192: Table Convention Center - $1/$2

Villan: ($226.60)
Hero: ($190)
7 other players

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [Jh Jd]
5 folds
Villan: raises to $4
Hero: raises to $18
2 folds
Villan: calls $14 (probably chasing implied odds)
*** FLOP *** [Th 6c 7d]
Villan: bets $18 (10-x, set, straight)
Hero: raises to $44
Villan: calls $26 (%$#*, he has 10-10, 6-6, 7-7, or K-K/A-A)
*** TURN *** [Th 6c 7d] [8d]
Villan: bets $164.60, and is all in (10-10, 6-6, 7-7, 10-9?)
Hero: folds

There was a bright spot. I liked how i played this Q-Q. Of course, any comments or advice on the hand would be appreciated.

FullTiltPoker Game #2209693354: Table Roundup Ridge - $1/$2

Cap'n of the S.S Spewster: ($200)
Villan: ($233.50)
Hero: ($187)

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [Qd Qs]
Hero: raises to $8
4 folds
Cap'n of the S.S Spewster(Poster): calls $6
Villan: calls $8
2 folds
*** FLOP *** [2c 4h Jd]
Hero: bets $18
Cap'n of the S.S Spewster: calls $18 (set/ J-x/5-5 through 10-10)
Villan: folds
*** TURN *** [2c 4h Jd] [9s]
Hero: checks
Cap'n of the S.S Spewster: bets $35 (set/K-J+/steal)
Hero: calls $35
*** RIVER *** [2c 4h Jd 9s] [2h]
Hero: checks
Cap'n of the S.S Spewster: bets $65 (set/A-J/bluff)
Hero: calls $65
*** SHOW DOWN ***
Cap'n of the S.S Spewster: shows [4d 6d] (two pair, Fours and Twos)
Hero: shows [Qd Qs] (two pair, Queens and Twos)
Hero: wins the pot ($260) with two pair, Queens and Twos

Now i gtg grocery shopping... Probably will play some 100NL for 1-2k hands, 8 tabling. I think i just needed a little break from the energy of doing that last night.

in hand 1 i think calling the flop might be the better option but i dont think reraising is bad either. i fold the turn too.

hand 2: nh

Another micro session before i popped into work to get some paperwork done for next weeks clinic. ~450 hands, -$40.

Considering the situations i ended up in, i felt like i did a great job.

FullTiltPoker Game #2210800558: Table Lineshack - $1/$2

Villan2: ($224.85)
Villan3$448.60)
Villan: ($221.70)
Hero: ($212.05)
5 other players

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [Ad Ac]
1 fold
Hero: raises to $7
Villan2: calls $7
Villan3: calls $7
2 folds
Villan: calls $7
2 folds
*** FLOP *** [4s 7h 4c]
Hero: bets $20
Villans 2 and 3: fold
Villan: calls $20
*** TURN *** [4s 7h 4c] [2s]
Hero: checks (I saw miffed do this w/A-A. Liked it, and tried it out)
Villan: checks
*** RIVER *** [4s 7h 4c 2s] [8h]
Hero: bets $48 (this was to get those PP's to make a crying call)
Villan: raises to $194.70, and is all in ( )
Hero: folds

Seems obvious he had 4-x, or 5-6 for the straight. Maybe he rivered 8's full, or had 7's off the flop. I don't think he would do this with just an overpair. So, IMO this was a good fold.

...and

FullTiltPoker Game #2210711266: Table Cathedral Rock - $1/$2

Villan: ($219.70)
Villan 3: ($222.85)
Hero: ($223.15)
Villan 2: ($148.60)
5 other players

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [Kd Ks]
2 folds
Villan 2: calls $2
3 folds
Villan: calls $2
Villan 3: calls $1
Hero: raises to $10
Villan 2: calls $8
Villan: calls $8
Villan 3: calls $8
*** FLOP *** [2c 9c 7d]
Villan 3: checks
Hero: bets $20
Villan 2: folds
Villan: calls $20
Villan3: calls $20
*** TURN *** [2c 9c 7d] [Qd]
3 checks
*** RIVER *** [2c 9c 7d Qd] [8h]
Villan 3: checks
Hero: bets $40
Villan: raises to $108
Villan 3: folds
Hero: folds

I think this was a bad fold, in retrospect. At least, i can't figure out if it was a good fold. Obviously he didn't have J-J/10-10. I don't think villan would do this w/ Q-x, unless he had 2 pair. Jc-10c seems like a possibility. Sets might also play this way, if they like to slowplay. And it is possible it was just a clever bluff. Thoughts?

One piece of good news was that i stacked a 50BB donk with a flopped set.

This was a hand that i think i played well.

FullTiltPoker Game #2210694773: Table Cathedral Rock - $1/$2

Hero: ($206.80)
Villan: ($177.40)
7 other players

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [Qs Qh]
2 folds
Hero: raises to $7
1 fold
Villan: calls $7
4 folds
*** FLOP *** [Ah Ks 8c]
Hero: checks (anyone hate this check?)
Villan: bets $8 (this looked weak)
Hero: raises to $22
Villan: folds

I don't feel intimidated when i play at 200NL. If anything, i take more time evaluating my opponents actions, and give them more respect. I am being more selective about the types of hands i button raise with, since people 3bet a lot more.

Will play more when i get back. Probably will only be gone for 2-3 hours.

The last hand you just posted:
Be careful, this is borderline spew town.

I'm glad to see an FTRer set a realistic goal, 400nl by next year is very doable.

Good session. +$300 over 350 hands.

Even better when you consider that i got oversetted (only for 50BB's but still...)

I practiced basic table selection during this session. I basically just sat down if the average pot size was >20BB or the player to a flop was >30%. I don't have a large enough sample size of 200NL to go fish finding, but i intend to utilize that when i get a larger database.

Incidentally, i found myself playing against a lot of weak opponents. I took advantage.

This first hand isn't very special or amazing. But, i am happy with how i played this hand, because i am guessing that if i were 8 tabling as usual i would have missed this.

FullTiltPoker Game #2212220361: Table Convention Center - $1/$2

Spewmaster5000: ($160.55)
Player 1: ($214.05)
Hero: ($209.15)
Mouse: ($137)
5 other players

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [9s 8c]
3 folds
Mouse: raises to $5
1 fold
Spewmaster5000: calls $3
1 fold
Player 1: calls $4
Hero: calls $3
*** FLOP *** [7s 6s 9c]
Player 1: checks
Vi-Popsmak bets $12
Mouse: calls $12
Spewmaster5000: calls $12
Player 1: folds
*** TURN *** [7s 6s 9c] [Jd]
3 checks
*** RIVER *** [7s 6s 9c Jd] [2h]
Hero: checks
Mouse: checks
Spewmaster5000: bets $35
Hero: calls $35
Mouse: folds
*** SHOW DOWN ***
Spewmaster5000: shows [8d Qd] (Queen Jack high)
Hero: shows [9s 8c] (a pair of Nines)
Hero: wins the pot ($123) with a pair of Nines

I also got into a huge pot with my pocket Aces. I didn't think either of my opponents were good players, in my brief history with them at the table. I was quite happy that i actually got action with them!

Anyone like/hate the min raises and micro bets?

FullTiltPoker Game #2212381869: Table Convention Center - $1/$2

Villan 2: ($140.50)
Hero: ($378.75)
Villan 1: ($44.80)

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [Ac Ah]
Hero: raises to $6
1 fold
Villan 1: raises to $16
3 folds
Villan 2: calls $16
2 folds
Hero: raises to $26
Villan 1: raises to $44.80, and is all in
Villan 2: calls $28.80
Hero: raises to $63.60
Villan 2: calls $18.80
*** FLOP *** [8h 6c Ad]
Hero: bets $15
Villan 2: calls $15
*** TURN *** [8h 6c Ad] [5s]
Hero: bets $25
Villan 2: calls $25
*** RIVER *** [8h 6c Ad 5s] [Qh]
Hero: bets $37
Villan 2: calls $36.90, and is all in

*** SHOW DOWN ***
Hero: shows [Ac Ah] (three of a kind, Aces)
Villan 2: mucks
Hero: wins the side pot ($191.40) with three of a kind, Aces
Villan 1: mucks
Hero: wins the main pot ($134.40) with three of a kind, Aces

It's much too early to tell, but i am starting to wonder if playing in small bunches will be +EV for me. Also, i might be better off playing 200NL only on the weekends until i feel i have improved more. I don't know if i am capable of playing against the 200NL regulars yet, though i am NOT EXPERIENCING A CONFIDENCE ISSUE. It's is a realism issue .

The flip side is that i am definitely trying harder and therefore improving more playing against better competition, which will benefit me in the long run. Comments are welcome on whether i should switch between limits, depending on the days of the week (i.e. play 100NL Mon- Thurs, 200NL Fri-Sun).

I also only ran 6 tables at once. I think it helped me pay closer attention to my opponents, and the development of hands as they were being played.

I might play another small session tonight. I am going to play some Guitar Hero 2 and go out to eat again tonight.

250 hands, -$40.

I ran into a difficult spot with A-K preflop.

FullTiltPoker Game #2212994858: Table Laurel Ridge - $1/$2

Villan: ($197.75)
Hero: ($194)

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [Kh Ac]
6 folds
Villan: raises to $7
Hero: raises to $22
1 fold
Villan: raises to $68
Hero: folds

I was unsure of what to do in this spot. Figuring that a villan's 4bet range was at worst A-K/Q-Q+, i folded. Was it a good fold? I decided to do an EV analysis to see if it was...

Good Fold?

Constants:
There is $92 already in the pot.
It costs me $172 to go all in.
Villan will fold A-K/Q-Q, and Y-Y(2 random cards) 100% of the time.
Villan will always call with K-K/A-A.
Villan holds K-K/A-A 60% of the time.
Villan holds A-K/Q-Q 30% of the time.
Villan holds 2 random cards 10% of the time


Villan has A-K/Q-Q (30%)

1). Villan will fold 100% of the time.
Hero bets $172, Villan folds, Result: + $90

Villan has K-K (30%)

1). Villan will win with K-K 70% of the time.
Hero bets $172, Villan calls AI. Result: -$172

2). Hero will win with A-K 30% of the time.
Hero bets $172. Villan calls AI. Result: +$262

Villan has A-A (30%)

1). Villan will win with A-A 90% of the time.
Hero bets $172, Villan calls AI. Result: -$172

2). Hero will win with A-K 10% of the time.
Hero bets $172. Villan calls AI. Result: +$262

Villan has X-X (10%)

1). Villan will fold 100% of the time
Hero bets $172, Villan folds. Result: +$90

Summary: ($90 x .3) + (-$172 x .21) + ($262 x .09) + (-$172 x .27) + ($262 x .03) + ($90 x .1)
or
($27) + (-$36.12) + ($23.58) + (-$46.48) + ($7.86) + ($9)

EV = -$15.34

lol, guess it was a nice fold.

My grand total for poker money earned this week:

(-$150) + (-$10) + ($60) + (-$220) + ($230 - RB) + ($245) + ($40) +(-$40) + ($300) + (-$40) = $415 - The numbers are approximate -

Not bad for ~15 hours of playing.

If i had a dollar for every hand... 250 hands for -$250

Well, i got 4 outered for 100BB's when i had flopped the nut straight + nut flush draw. Two pair wants to play for stacks and rivers his full house.

I flopped a set, and had $150 in the pot going into the turn with two opponents when the 3rd diamond came. I shut down when the betting went nuts. Too bad, because i was going to push any non diamond turn.

I unsuccessfully attempted a squeeze play.

I stacked two or three 20BB donks

My c-bets were effective as they normally are.

Still quite happy because it was just normal variance that caused me to have a poor session.

Ugh. 1600 hands for -$90.

This session was fairly long (around 4 hours)

I got A-A and K-K at least 16 times.
Unfortunately, every time i got them, my opponents had something better. One guy called 1/4 of his stack preflop with 2-2 against my A-A (of course he flopped it). I am not complaining - i want those guys in my game! I am just trying to explain how i managed to log a losing session after being dealt so many big pocket pairs

This was easily the most difficult big pair spot i ran into. Most of the other big pair losses were suckouts. At the time i wasn't sure if calling this AI was -EV.

FullTiltPoker Game #2216818275: Table Lineshack - $1/$2

Villan: ($211.50)
Hero: ($198.80)
Accomplice: ($197)
Donk: ($199)
5 other players

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [Kh Ks]
Donk: calls $2
1 fold
Villan: raises to $9
2 folds
Hero: calls $9
Accomplice: calls $9
2 folds
Donk: calls $7
*** FLOP *** [Qh 6d 6h]
Donk: checks
Villan: bets $12
Hero: raises to $42
2 folds
Villan: raises to $202.50, and is all in
Hero: calls $147.80, and is all in

If he has a Flush Draw 25% of the time, A-Q 5%, 6-x 60%, and a bluff 10%, then the call is close, considering the dead money in the pot.



I thought this was a good bluff.

FullTiltPoker Game #2217508153: Table Broadbent - $1/$2

Hero: ($248.30)
Villan: ($218.90)
7 other players

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [Kc As]
Villan: calls $2
5 folds
Hero: raises to $10
1 fold
Villan: calls $8
1 fold
*** FLOP *** [4h Th Ts]
Hero: bets $17
Villan: raises to $34
Hero: raises to $70

I think he has to put me on either a bluff or K-K/A-A. My guess is that he would minraise with a PP 50%, with 10-x 40% and a bluff 10%. Also, I can still easily shut down if he calls/pushes, since i am not pot committed.



I just messed this hand up. I don't know if he would have put more money in the hand, but I didn't even give him a chance to make a set or bluff.

FullTiltPoker Game #2217917588: Table Summit Grove - $1/$2

Villan: ($230.95)
Player 1: ($203)
Player 2: ($80)
Hero: ($334.80)
5 other players

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [Kd Ks]
Villan: calls $2
3 folds
Player 1: calls $2
Player 2: calls $2
Hero: raises to $22
2 folds
Villan: calls $20
2 folds
*** FLOP *** [4h 2c Kc]
Villan: checks
Hero: bets $35
Villan: folds



Anyone think i should make another bet here?

FullTiltPoker Game #2217696434: Table Summit Grove - $1/$2

Villan: ($268.75)
200NL Reg: ($213.05)
Hero: ($303)
5 other players

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [As Js]
1 fold
Hero: raises to $6
1 fold
Villan: calls $6
3 folds
200NL Reg: calls $4
*** FLOP *** [Tc Jh Jc]
200NL Reg: checks
Hero: bets $12.40
Villan: calls $12.40
200NL Reg: calls $12.40
*** TURN *** [Tc Jh Jc] [5h]
200NL Reg: checks
Hero: bets $37
Villan: calls $37
200NL Reg: folds
*** RIVER *** [Tc Jh Jc 5h] [Qd]
Hero: checks

I figure if he has K-Q he will call 1/4PSB, and will shove if he has Q-J/J-10. He would probably call 1/2PSB with K-J. I doubt he would bluff a missed flush, after i bet strong on two streets up to my check. Unfortunately, i would probably call an open shove on the river. I would, however, be able to fold to a push over a smaller bet. So, in retrospect i should have gone for a block bet (1/4PSB), since that would maximize my positive expectation and minimize my negative expectation.


I have to go into work again to do some work. I also am probably going out to eat again, but my guess is i will have time to play 1-3 small sessions, as i don't have work or class on Monday.

300 hands, +$100

This was a pretty boring session. Unfortunately i have to stop playing tonight since i do have to work for a few hours very early in the morning (leaving at 4AM). Then i have class at 6PM, but i might not even go idk.

I still played mostly 200NL tonight, but there weren't a lot of soft tables open so i also had a few 100NL tables running. And the fish were in attendance.



This hand made me go wtf?

FullTiltPoker Game #2220732896: Table Montpeliar - $0.50/$1

Hero: ($99.50)
15yrs old: ($81.80)

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [Ks Kc]
15yrs old: calls $1
2 other players limp, 2 players fold
Hero: raises to $7
3 folds
15yrs old: calls $6
2 folds
*** FLOP *** [Th Ah Kd]
15yrs old: checks
Hero: bets $5 (idk why i did this)
15yrs old: calls $5
*** TURN *** [Th Ah Kd] [Qc]
15yrs old: checks
Hero: checks
*** RIVER *** [Th Ah Kd Qc] [8s]
15yrs old: bets $25
Hero: calls $25

15yrs old: shows [Js Kh] (a straight, Ace high)


I hope to get in 700 or so hands over a couple of small sessions tomorrow.

It is time to go back to 100NL, for now.

I played two sessions this morning. The first was 400 hands for +$100. The second was 900 hands for -$400. Although i lost half of that when i flopped a Queen High Flush, and both of my opponents flopped higher flushes . On the cool side, it was the second biggest pot i have ever been in. Of course, i didn't win the biggest pot i was ever in either .

Basically my roll is hovering around 3k again, and i don't want to go on a downswing with only 15 buyins.

A lot of the $$$ i lost so far today was because i was a little too paranoid about being bluffed today. Not to mention i was getting 3bet against like crazy, and i just couldn't pick a good spot to play back at it. I am going to need to learn how to play back at 3bets, and i see FTR member DaGOAT posted something regarding that. I hope that topic gets a lot of discussion.

I will post some of the hands where i got 3bet on. I would like some responses on what you would do with the hands (4bet/call/fold).

FullTiltPoker Game #2224497282: Table Summit Grove - $1/$2

Hero: ($197)
Villan: ($185.70) (18/3/4) over 300 hands

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [Jd As]
5 folds
Hero: raises to $7
1 fold
Villan: raises to $21
1 fold
Hero: ?

FullTiltPoker Game #2224406180: Table Hornblower - $1/$2

Hero: ($220.15)
Villan(SB): ($196) (47/10/1.3) over 20 hands

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [Qc Qh]
4 folds
Vi-Popsmak raises to $9
2 folds
Villan(SB): raises to $31
1 fold
Hero: ?

FullTiltPoker Game #2223983852: Table Hornblower - $1/$2

Hero: ($196.85)
200NL Reg: ($200) (20/5/4) over 800 hands

Dealt to Hero: [Qd Ad]
2 folds
Hero: raises to $7
200NL Reg: raises to $24
5 folds
Hero: ?

FullTiltPoker Game #2224480681: Table Lake Mead - $1/$2

Hero: ($267.90)
Villan(BB): ($130.60) (32/10/1.3) over 80 hands
*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Vi-Popsmak [Td Jc]
6 folds
Hero: raises to $7
1 fold
Villan(BB): raises to $22
Hero: ?

I feel kind of dumb. I think i was getting straight up pwned at 200NL. Moving up there probably wasn't entirely clever. Luckily, I am only walking away less than 1/2 a buyin down over 3500 hands.

Once i log 20-25k more hands @ 100NL, i should have ~5.5k (will have my RB by then), i will take another shot at this. If at that point i run 10k hands @ 200NL with a less than 2ptBB/100 win rate, i will... Actually i would like some help answering that question too. What should i do if i can't turn a higher profit @ 200NL than 100NL? How long do i have to give it before i give up? (I know 3500 hands is a small sample size, but i have a lot of technical issues i need to hash out with countering the increased aggression at 200NL).

All are easy folds except the QQ. Too bad you don't have a read or at least more hands for that one. I probably call and call a c-bet on a flop with no A or K, prepared to get AI on the turn.

Good decision to move back down given your roll. From what I've read, you're definitely capable of beating FT 1/2, so once you feel comfortably rolled, move back up. Don't worry about winrates, you need such a huge sample size before they become significant that it's useless worrying about them. 1/2 is beatable, so eventually you'll be up there for good.

BTW, I'm Cap'n of the S.S. Spewster from a bunch of posts up NH.

All are easy folds except the QQ. Too bad you don't have a read or at least more hands for that one. I probably call and call a c-bet on a flop with no A or K, prepared to get AI on the turn.

I actually folded all of them preflop. The Q-Q was frustrating, but i did not want to call large bets on later streets when i could likely be up against K-K/A-A. I didn't have any notes or a very large sample size of hands, so i figured a fold was probably best.

Good decision to move back down given your roll. From what I've read, you're definitely capable of beating FT 1/2, so once you feel comfortably rolled, move back up. Don't worry about winrates, you need such a huge sample size before they become significant that it's useless worrying about them. 1/2 is beatable, so eventually you'll be up there for good.

Thanks for the compliment. Nice to hear a vote of confidence from someone who has been there, done that.

BTW, I'm Cap'n of the S.S. Spewster from a bunch of posts up NH.

LOL! No offense intended, since we all take turns at the helm of that ship

I will keep your identity a secret, as soon as i get home to check what it is

250 hands for +$40

I saw 29% of my flops tonight; only 1 A-K and 1 Q-Q. No J-J/10-10. 2 A-Q.

Played like a LAGG tonight (tilt possibly?)

I trapped a guy when i c/r'ed my OESD on the flop and made my hand on the turn.

I definitely lost money playing too many hands. I am tired and shouldn't have even played. Like bad table selection, this is something i need to work on. I will be trying not to let this happen again - it's not about the hours its about the quality of the hours spent.

I don't have anything interesting to post, hopefully i will be able to play 1k hands tomorrow.

I have played 3 small sessions since i last posted on Monday.

10 hands, -$40
120 hands, +$90
80 hands, +$70

I had lots of class/work this week. I have a research project due in a couple of weeks, and i spent most of the time that i wasn't at work organizing my notes and drafting my paper. Though that wasn't the only reason i wasn't playing - i felt like i was kind of frustrated with poker and needed a short break.

The first of the three sessions was from Monday (i was tired from a long day and i was still a little bit tilted), the last two were from last night and tonight.


I will post a bluff that i thought was good from tonight.

FullTiltPoker Game #2254069415: Table Hauck - $0.50/$1

Hero: ($115.10)
Player 2: ($119.30)
Player 1: ($107.55)
Villan: ($128.05)

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [9s Ts]
2 folds
Villan: raises to $3.50
1 fold
Hero: calls $3.50
Player 2: calls $3.50
2 folds
Player 1: calls $2.50
*** FLOP *** [Js Ks 4c]
Player 1: checks
Villan: bets $14.50
Hero: calls $14.50
Players 1, 2: fold
*** TURN *** [Js Ks 4c] [7d]
2 checks
*** RIVER *** [Js Ks 4c 7d] [4d]
Villan: bets $24
Hero: raises to $97.10, and is all in

Obviously a smart player isn't going to put me on a huge hand, but someone who is only looking at their cards might. I also figured that i was risking $60 to win $60, so the play only had to work >50% of the time, and his line looked weak to me. Plus i was/am high, so i might have read into his bet a little too much.

You should play longer sessions. No offense, but 6 tabling 300 hand sessions is weaksauce.

Gl.

750 hands, +$20.

No big suckouts, no card rush. Pretty quiet night.

Only hand i lost any serious money on was on a failed squeeze play. My large c-bet on the flop got called, and he shoved a blank turn.


Good/Bad?

FullTiltPoker Game #2260947705: Table WPTfan.com - $0.50/$1

Villan: ($98) (25/7/2)
Hero: ($127.60)

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [4d 4s]
Villan: raises to $3.50
Hero: calls $3.50
4 folds
*** FLOP *** [5h 9h 3s]
Villan: checks
Hero: bets $5.50
Villan: calls $5.50
*** TURN *** [5h 9h 3s] [3c]
Villan: bets $10
Hero: calls $10
*** RIVER *** [5h 9h 3s 3c] [Jc]
Villan: bets $20
Hero: calls $20

My 400NL Fantasy:

350 hands/hr: 6 tabling
(1.7 to 1.8)BB/100: $13.6 to $14.4/100
$13.6 x 3.5 = $47.6/hr
$14.4 x 3.5 = $50.4/hr

30 hours/wk x 44wk/yr = 1320 hr/yr
350 hands/hr x 30hr/wk x 44wk/yr = ~462000 hands/yr

$47.6 x 1320 = $62832/yr +$13-15k (Rakeback) = ~$78000
$50.4 x 1320 = $66528/yr + $13-15k(Rakeback) = ~$80000


Conditions:
1). 25k Bankroll before going full time.
2). 20k profit before 01/08
-$1k/mo. from Rakeback
-2ptBB/100 @ 200NL ($1680/mo. 30hrs/wk)
-$400/mo. from work

I also have 7 months to study and learn more about poker. Obviously this doesn't mean that i will become a great poker player in 7 months. But, i hope to be 7 months closer to being a great poker player in the next 7 months.


I want to know why everyone else isn't doing this; obviously it isn't this easy or a lot of people on this forum would have already done it. What factors am i not taking into consideration? Is the winrate unsustainable? Is it unlikely that i could play 6 hours a day during the week?

i think its doable... but it would be hard to play that much consistently for a long time especially when you are doing it for your sole income. but fuck it you would be working that much at something else besides poker.

I think your 400NL fantasy is doable, but I have a few concerns. First I think 6 hours/day, 5 days/week is a lot. You won't know until you try, but I think you could get pretty burned out. Second, 400NL FR at Full Tilt is much tougher than 200NL. It's not unbeatable, but there are a lot less fish there, so you'll have to learn to beat the regulars. Third, there aren't nearly as many 400NL tables running as 200NL, so table selection sucks, except at peak hours. I think you may find that your winrate at juicy 200NL tables is more than double that at tough 400NL tables. I think that's the case for me, so I'm only opening up good 400NL tables and filling the rest with 200NL. I usually end up with ~half and half (6- or 7-tabling).

Good luck!

Originally Posted by Vi-Zer0Skill

Another micro session before i popped into work to get some paperwork done for next weeks clinic. ~450 hands, -$40.

Considering the situations i ended up in, i felt like i did a great job.

FullTiltPoker Game #2210800558: Table Lineshack - $1/$2

Villan2: ($224.85)
Villan3$448.60)
Villan: ($221.70)
Hero: ($212.05)
5 other players

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [Ad Ac]
1 fold
Hero: raises to $7
Villan2: calls $7
Villan3: calls $7
2 folds
Villan: calls $7
2 folds
*** FLOP *** [4s 7h 4c]
Hero: bets $20
Villans 2 and 3: fold
Villan: calls $20
*** TURN *** [4s 7h 4c] [2s]
Hero: checks (I saw miffed do this w/A-A. Liked it, and tried it out)
Villan: checks
*** RIVER *** [4s 7h 4c 2s] [8h]
Hero: bets $48 (this was to get those PP's to make a crying call)
Villan: raises to $194.70, and is all in ( )
Hero: folds

Seems obvious he had 4-x, or 5-6 for the straight. Maybe he rivered 8's full, or had 7's off the flop. I don't think he would do this with just an overpair. So, IMO this was a good fold.

...and

FullTiltPoker Game #2210711266: Table Cathedral Rock - $1/$2

Villan: ($219.70)
Villan 3: ($222.85)
Hero: ($223.15)
Villan 2: ($148.60)
5 other players

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [Kd Ks]
2 folds
Villan 2: calls $2
3 folds
Villan: calls $2
Villan 3: calls $1
Hero: raises to $10
Villan 2: calls $8
Villan: calls $8
Villan 3: calls $8
*** FLOP *** [2c 9c 7d]
Villan 3: checks
Hero: bets $20
Villan 2: folds
Villan: calls $20
Villan3: calls $20
*** TURN *** [2c 9c 7d] [Qd]
3 checks
*** RIVER *** [2c 9c 7d Qd] [8h]
Villan 3: checks
Hero: bets $40
Villan: raises to $108
Villan 3: folds
Hero: folds

I think this was a bad fold, in retrospect. At least, i can't figure out if it was a good fold. Obviously he didn't have J-J/10-10. I don't think villan would do this w/ Q-x, unless he had 2 pair. Jc-10c seems like a possibility. Sets might also play this way, if they like to slowplay. And it is possible it was just a clever bluff. Thoughts?

One piece of good news was that i stacked a 50BB donk with a flopped set.

This was a hand that i think i played well.

FullTiltPoker Game #2210694773: Table Cathedral Rock - $1/$2

Hero: ($206.80)
Villan: ($177.40)
7 other players

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [Qs Qh]
2 folds
Hero: raises to $7
1 fold
Villan: calls $7
4 folds
*** FLOP *** [Ah Ks 8c]
Hero: checks (anyone hate this check?)
Villan: bets $8 (this looked weak)
Hero: raises to $22
Villan: folds

I don't feel intimidated when i play at 200NL. If anything, i take more time evaluating my opponents actions, and give them more respect. I am being more selective about the types of hands i button raise with, since people 3bet a lot more.

Will play more when i get back. Probably will only be gone for 2-3 hours.

1+2 are played quite well. 1 MAY be a c/c letting a pp bet for value and AK to try bluff, but as played you controlled these well considering you dont want to play huge pots.
In 2 you like JJ/TT but then id make his JT call and bluff a flush as well as the gutshot.

meh double post but w/e.

I think a realistic goal for mid stakes pro's is 3-5hrs mon to wed and then 5hrs min thurs to sunday which gives you about 32hrs per week min.
On those stats you run 350hands per hr 6 tabling at $3 per table per hour rakeback and make approx $31/hr. Thats for 200nl.
I still think however, its no where near the $100 per hour rate you need but thats just my opinion.
30+hrs of poker per week isnt going to cause burnout but if you think you can play 45+ then you would be being unrealistic as thats more hours than you would do in a typical job with lots more concentration required.
My job requires me looking at a computer 35+hrs per week and i did 60+hrs of poker practically 9 tabling for 3months at the end of last year while unemployed and it really does become mechanical eventually and very tiring.

600 hands, +$190.


I am starting to recognize better spots for the squeeze play. Before i was probably picking some crap spots to try to squeeze in (i.e. TAG is UTG raises and gets a call. Then i try to squeeze). I like squeezing from the SB actually, when i am playing against CO and BTN. Seems like i get folds 75% of the time, and get the pot on the flop almost always. I am definitely looking for more advice on optimal "squeeze spots", since i know i will need to do this well to make money at higher stakes.

My biggest pot of the night was against A-K when he flopped trips and decided to slowplay. I caught a FH on the turn with 9-9 and he shoved the river unimproved.


Favorite hand: What should i do on the river? Another value bet?

FullTiltPoker Game #2265179166: Table Wispy Sage - $0.50/$1

Villan: ($99.90) (57/24/2.5) ~50 hands
Hero: ($114.40)
Player 1: ($55.95)


*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [Ad Kh]
1 fold
Player 1: raises to $3.50
Hero: raises to $14
1 fold
Villan: calls $14
3 folds
*** FLOP *** [Ac 9h 6c]
Hero: checks
Villan: bets $33
Hero: calls $33
*** TURN *** [Ac 9h 6c] [Td]
Hero: bets $14
Villan: calls $14
*** RIVER *** [Ac 9h 6c Td] [4h]
Hero: ?

Tough week, but it included a failed attempt at 200NL. I probably played about 15 hours again this week.

(-$250) + (-$90) + ($100) + ($100) + (-$400) + ($40) + (-$40) + ($90) +($70) + ($20) + ($190) + ($150 - RB) = -$20.

Grand Total: +$395

I did learn an awful lot this week about 3betting/countering it. Still definitely a topic i am seeking improvement on. I am actually practicing table selection now (to a degree).

Thanks to everyone who responded to my projected 400NL stats. I haven't experienced major burnout yet, so idk if/when i feel it how bad it will affect my winrate and hours played.

i think its doable... but it would be hard to play that much consistently for a long time especially when you are doing it for your sole income. but fuck it you would be working that much at something else besides poker.

LOL, exactly what i have been thinking.

I think your 400NL fantasy is doable, but I have a few concerns. First I think 6 hours/day, 5 days/week is a lot. You won't know until you try, but I think you could get pretty burned out. Second, 400NL FR at Full Tilt is much tougher than 200NL. It's not unbeatable, but there are a lot less fish there, so you'll have to learn to beat the regulars. Third, there aren't nearly as many 400NL tables running as 200NL, so table selection sucks, except at peak hours. I think you may find that your winrate at juicy 200NL tables is more than double that at tough 400NL tables. I think that's the case for me, so I'm only opening up good 400NL tables and filling the rest with 200NL. I usually end up with ~half and half (6- or 7-tabling).

You are right about this. I watched you play for a little bit the other night, and could only find you on three 400NL tables. How much do you think i should adjust my winrate to account for me playing @ 200NL tables as well? Should i try making two separate equations for the different limits? What is your winrate at 400NL?

(Granted it is probably too early to be doing any winrate projections until i actually start to win at a limit >100NL )

I think a realistic goal for mid stakes pro's is 3-5hrs mon to wed and then 5hrs min thurs to sunday which gives you about 32hrs per week min.
On those stats you run 350hands per hr 6 tabling at $3 per table per hour Rakeback and make approx $31/hr. Thats for 200nl.

I agree with this. It can't even be close to as profitable Mon-Wed as it is Thurs-Sun. I think if i can come up with some kind of entrepreneurial business i wouldn't even have to log hours on the tougher days. Being so young and having no capital with which to work with makes this just a little bit difficult. I am planning on going to school part time while i play poker full time, since i (being realistic) think that eventually online poker will no longer be profitable for a player of my ability/limit. I think i will end up taking 7-8 years to get a B.A., but idc because i am in no hurry to rush into a cubicle. Oh yeah back to the point i might just schedule my classes Mon-Wed then

I still think however, its no where near the $100 per hour rate you need but thats just my opinion.

I read a post by a NZ player who was turning pro today. It was a really interesting read, but i kept seeing this $$$/hr. winrate all over the post. Is this winrate supposed to be the average over the entire year? Personally, i see it as a standard of living preference. I imagine i could get by on much less than 35k/yr, since i have no dependents.

30+hrs of poker per week isnt going to cause burnout but if you think you can play 45+ then you would be being unrealistic as thats more hours than you would do in a typical job with lots more concentration required.
My job requires me looking at a computer 35+hrs per week and i did 60+hrs of poker practically 9 tabling for 3months at the end of last year while unemployed and it really does become mechanical eventually and very tiring.

Sounds like a recipe for burnout. I will definitely make it a point not to overdo it. Thank God i am not a workaholic

Originally Posted by Vi-Zer0Skill

What is your winrate at 400NL?

Lifetime at FT (since late January):


I'm running bad at 400NL (see W$@SD) but I'm also playing bad. C-bets aren't nearly as effective and I'm still adjusting. People don't stack off as easily either.

Estimating winrates is kind of useless imo, since there's so much variance involved. Once you've beaten 200NL for at least 3ptbb/100 over 10k hands, and have a $10k+ bankroll, start taking shots at 400NL.

I'd be happy to talk strategy, swap notes on 200NL regulars, etc. PM or AIM me if you want.

Good job Zook!! Gotta love that LAG style

Originally Posted by zook

Originally Posted by Vi-Zer0Skill

What is your winrate at 400NL?

Lifetime at FT (since late January):


I'm running bad at 400NL (see W$@SD) but I'm also playing bad. C-bets aren't nearly as effective and I'm still adjusting. People don't stack off as easily either.

Estimating winrates is kind of useless imo, since there's so much variance involved. Once you've beaten 200NL for at least 3ptbb/100 over 10k hands, and have a $10k+ bankroll, start taking shots at 400NL.

I'd be happy to talk strategy, swap notes on 200NL regulars, etc. PM or AIM me if you want.

if you play this good, jut move to an open 30/20 style for pwnage.

Yeah Miffed LOL, Zook should add some crazy variance to FR.

I can see it now, Zooks name all over 2+2.

''maniac is 40/35 over 100 hands and we got TP against a shove on turn,what would jesus do?''

1300 hands, -$25.

Got A-A cracked by K-K for 100BB's. I didn't play the hand well at all, since i lost it on the turn after the "K" hit the flop.

No good hands to post. I do feel that i got lucky a couple of times tonight, with my calls/bluffs. Looking back at the hand histories i think i should have actually folded/checked on a few of the pots that i won.

1100 hands, -$220.

I had some bad variance, but there was at least $100 i could have kept for myself (cardsman knows - he was there ).

Seemed like too many of my c-bets were getting floated. I probably just didn't fire enough second barrels.

I rivered a few decent hands, but as it turned out my opponents either had me totally dominated (where my draw only served to cause me to give them more money), or my opponents were actually drawing to better hands.

I got really lucky and made Aces full on the river to beat 7's full (i was p/c before the river).

Not a whole lot to post, just a poor session. Hopefully tomorrow will go a little smoother.

Originally Posted by aislephive

You should play longer sessions. No offense, but 6 tabling 300 hand sessions is weaksauce.

Gl.

Originally Posted by Triptan3s

Originally Posted by aislephive

You should play longer sessions. No offense, but 6 tabling 300 hand sessions is weaksauce.

Gl.

Don't listen to them, play whatever length sessions you have time for/are comfortable with.

Well, i decided to try a little 6-max before i went to sleep. Actually, i slept for 5 hours after i got home from work today (sick), but i woke up refreshed and, after reading cardsmans blog and hearing a little about 6max, felt curious and hopped onto Full Tilt.

150 hands, +$20

I figured i would just play 50NL to get started, and only run 4tables.

The opposition seems quite weak. Not surprisingly, my c-bets were getting a lot less respect. I had some tough hands, and due to the smaller table size i had a tough time figuring what to do.

Sorry, i don't really have any significant history with any of my opponents at 6max (all <50 hands)

FullTiltPoker Game #2283783154: Table Lazarette (6 max) - $0.25/$0.50

Fish: ($11.55)
Villan: ($64)
Hero: ($73.30)
3 other players

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero:[Ad Js]
1 fold
Fish: raises to $1
Villan: calls $1
Hero: calls $1
2 folds
*** FLOP *** [Jc 8d 2s]
Fish: checks
Villan: checks
Hero: bets $2.30
Fish: folds
Villan: raises to $6 (set/draw/J-x)
Hero: calls $3.70
*** TURN *** [Jc 8d 2s] [As]
Villan: bets $10 (set/draw/A-J/bluff)
Hero: ?


This hand has the same fish. At the time, i had no read that my opponent was bad; this was one of my first hands at the table.

FullTiltPoker Game #2283763173: Table Lazarette (6 max) - $0.25/$0.50

Fish: ($47.80)
Hero: ($55.65)
4 other players

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [Th 9h]
Hero: raises to $1.50
3 folds
Fish: calls $1.25
1 fold
*** FLOP *** [2h 4h Qs]
Fish: bets $2
Hero: calls $2
*** TURN *** [2h 4h Qs] [8h]
Fish: bets $8.50
Hero: calls $8.50
*** RIVER *** [2h 4h Qs 8h] [5d]
Fish: bets $11
Hero: ?


I don't know how long i will experiment with 6max. Maybe i will play it on and off for 10k hands or so and see if my ptBB/100 is greater than 4.5 (my 100NL FR winrate). As for moving to 100NL 6max, i might do that if i win a few buy ins at 50NL.

Back to sleep!

I can't wait until school is over

Tomorrow i pledge to play at least 500 hands (Full Ring probably).

I still have so much work to do before finals wrap up. I took a day off of work just to get my shit in order...

So, i will be posting a poker related update tomorrow...



Things i plan to focus on tomorrow:
1). 3betting much more lightly
a). successfully utilizing the squeeze
b). only 3betting on the button/co, unless i have a very strong hand
2). playing my implied odds much more conservatively (looking only for 15:1 or better)
3). folding more in the SB
4). raising more into the SB from the BB
5). continue my very loose/aggressive CO/BTN raising preflop
6). second barreling on the turn. too many people are floating, and i shut down too easy. Only second barrel when i have an out (at least 1 overcard, preferrably my non nut drawing hands)

OK, i can't wait to play tomorrow! (Hope its 1-2k hands!!!)

500 hands, -$10.

I decided that i would go ahead and play FR today.

I implemented everything i wanted to today (referring to my last post). I wasn't exactly cold decked, it was just that i wasn't getting good cards.

I have two hands i want to post.


Good/Bad Fold?

FullTiltPoker Game #2293520121: Table Cobble Cove - $0.50/$1

Alongfortheride: ($169.30)
Hero: ($95.40)
Villan: ($79.95) (37/12/2.7) over ~100 hands
6 other players

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [Ks Ah]
Villan: calls $1
3 folds
Alongfortheride: calls $1
Hero: raises to $6
3 folds
Villan: calls $5
Alongfortheride: calls $5
*** FLOP *** [Tc Ac 2h]
Villan: checks
Alongfortheride: checks
Vi-Popsmak bets $11.30
Villan: calls $11.30
Alongfortheride: folds
*** TURN *** [Tc Ac 2h] [Qc]
Villan: checks
Hero: checks
*** RIVER *** [Tc Ac 2h Qc] [Qd]
Villan: bets $20
Hero: folds


Good/Bad Call?

FullTiltPoker Game #2293547202: Table Dove River - $0.50/$1

Hero: ($100)
Villan: ($66.10) (28/10/2.6) over ~100 hands
7 other players

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [Qc As]
2 folds
Hero: raises to $3.50
4 folds
Villan: calls $3
1 fold
*** FLOP *** [Jd 7h Th]
Villan: checks
Hero: bets $4.60
Villan: calls $4.60
*** TURN *** [Jd 7h Th] [8c]
Villan: checks
Hero: checks
*** RIVER *** [Jd 7h Th 8c] [3s]
Villan: bets $10
Hero: calls $10


I want to play another session. I have all my school/work/house work finished, except my paper. Which is on... Bill Frist and online poker (no joke). So, i think it will take me about 2-3 hours to vent 3000 words onto paper.

Hand one depends on how often he floats with an underpair. I don't think it's enough to make up for the times he's drawing and it comes in, and this board is plenty wet. You only beat a bluff, or low PP. good fold.

I don't think you can make that call in the second hand. You basically have a bluff catcher and that's it....

GL, btw.....where are you going to school?

1. I call b/c you've underepped your hand, board is really bluffable and I'm a station.

2. I fold this one.

Now come visit NLHE HH's and check out the last few hands I posted. That forum is dead.

GL, btw.....where are you going to school?

University of MN - Duluth. Nothing to do in this town except party and play poker.

I don't think you can make that call in the second hand. You basically have a bluff catcher and that's it....

I know this hand only stands to beat a bluff, but i think that is what villan has.

*** FLOP *** [Jd 7h Th]
Villan: checks
Hero: bets $4.60
Villan: calls $4.60

I figure villan is either holding a strong hand (set, top two, 9-8), or is drawing. I figure with a hand like TP he is most likely going to c/r the flop if he doesn't lead. He could be holding 10-x.

*** TURN *** [Jd 7h Th] [8c]
Villan: checks
Hero: checks

The turn action makes it much more likely that he is holding a drawing hand. Only a few hands have a nine in the hole that play this way (10-9, J-9, 7-9), and even then they would usually want to build a pot. He might also be holding middle pair at this point.

*** RIVER *** [Jd 7h Th 8c] [3s]
Villan: bets $10
Hero: calls $10

I don't think he is holding a ten or a jack anymore. I don't think he is holding a set or 9-8 anymore since i would expect him to usually put a bet in on the turn. He might be holding a straight, but i would think he would usually put in a bet there also. So, i figured he was holding 2 hearts or K-Q. Considering the size of the pot, i only had to be right 1/3 of the time for the call to be good. I figured that his range consisted of missed drawing hands at least that often and so i made the call.

***SHOWDOWN***
Villan: shows Kd-Qd (King Queen High)
Hero: shows As-Qc (Ace Queen High)
Hero wins pot $33.75 with Ace Queen High.

I might be a donkey, but i think i might also just be good at reading bluff lines at 100NL.


As for the first hand, i hadn't considered that villan might have just floated a PP to see if i actually had the Ace i was repping. All i figured he could be holding was A-10+, a set, or a flush draw. Makes my fold a little less clear cut in my mind...

[/quote]

500 hands, +$200.

My flop AF is going to hit 5.0 soon!

Good session. My favorite hand was at a table i had just sat down at. Stacked a fish. He and i had a little chat after the hand (i wasn't being a jerk, i promise )

These were two of the players at the table i was at:
(this is Full Ring)
1). a 66/40
2). a 58/0

Nice table selection cardsman (have to give him credit for finding this table - he was there first!)

FullTiltPoker Game #2296662215: Table Greenbrook - $0.50/$1

Fish 1: ($96.05)
Hero: ($104.50)
7 other players, all >80BB's

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [2c Ac]
Fish 2: calls $1
2 folds
Player 2: calls $1
Fish 1: raises to $3.50
1 fold
Player 1: calls $3.50
1 fold
Hero: calls $2.50
Fish 2: calls $2.50
Player 2: calls $2.50
*** FLOP *** [5c 7d 6c]
Hero: checks
Fish 2: checks
Player 2: checks
Fish 1: bets $25
Player 1: folds
Hero: raises to $93
Fish 2: folds
Player 2: folds
Fish 1: damn..should have went to bed 30 mins ago.. (lol)
Fish 1: calls $67.55, and is all in
Hero: shows [2c Ac]
Fish 1: shows [9c 9h]
*** TURN *** [5c 7d 6c] [As]
*** RIVER *** [5c 7d 6c As] [2h]
Hero: wins pot $200.10 with two pair, Aces and Twos


A lot of limp-reraises preflop in this session. At least 3 times.

My first squeeze got 4betted by someone who had just called the initial raise.

Got A-A twice, K-K three times. No one wanted to play for a flop.

Honestly i think that 90% of my c-bets took down the pot. I didn't really have to play poker so much as just bet when cards came out.


Some random thoughts on my game:


Good things:

I don't make idiotic bluffs anymore.

I am much more aggressive on the flop.

I don't make idiotic bluffs anymore.

I study many HH's of my own for mistakes, and good players for new or better lines.

I don't try to do anything else while playing poker (no reading, watching t.v., etc.)

I take breaks when i feel like i need one.

I take lots of notes on my opponents.

I am actively controlling my bluffophobia, a painful condition where every bet made by an opponent appears to be a bluff.

I don't try to outplay everyone with my position preflop all the time. At one point, i was frequently calling raises with hands like 8-3o IP because i was intending to steal the pot away on the flop. Then, i would either forget about my plan and just fold, or i would spew a ton of chips on an idiotic bluff.


Things i need to improve on:

I think i have some work to do on my turn/river play. I would like some random advice on good tactics to advocate on the turn and river. I already understand the idea of not bloating pots with hands like TPTK, pricing out draws, checking behind with good but not great hands, value betting river (i am really good at this IMO), and checking medium strength hands. I also feel that i am good at letting my opponents who missed their FD get a chance to bet at the pot IP by checking to them instead of betting.

i am yet to spend hours in Pokertracker studying opponents lines in standard situations. I will most likely start doing this at 200NL, where the smaller and more difficult 200NL regular player base will make it more worthwhile.

I need to take even more notes, and better ones.

Table Selection is one area i still need to work on. For me, it is too tempting just to look at table stats and hop on. <--- That is an improvement from me just hopping onto any open table. Is the only solution to type in the names of players from my Pokergrapher Buddy List?

I need to spend less time at the table, and more time studying away from it at the moment. However, i also understand the need to practice the ideas i am learning. I just feel that i am not learning enough new ideas, or that the idea supply is starting to run low too early in my poker career.

value betting river (i am really good at this IMO)

I am really not - would you have time to write a couple of paras on how you go about picking the best ways to get the most value?

Originally Posted by Vi-Zer0Skill

Table Selection is one area i still need to work on. For me, it is too tempting just to look at table stats and hop on. <--- That is an improvement from me just hopping onto any open table. Is the only solution to type in the names of players from my Pokergrapher Buddy List?

There's a crappy ahk script called FTBuddies:

http://overcards.com/wiki/moin.cgi/FullTiltBuddies

You can type your buddies into it, or add them from the tables, and it will automate the search for them. I say it's crappy because, 1) you can't really do anything on your computer while it's searching, if you're typing it screws it up, and it needs control over your windows, 2) it periodically deletes your buddy list, so you need to constantly keep it backed up, and 3) the guy who made it doesn't support it anymore. Still, it's better than nothing.

value betting river (i am really good at this IMO)

I am really not - would you have time to write a couple of paras on how you go about picking the best ways to get the most value?

I should have added to that statement "relative to my opposition at 100NL"

Here is my limited insight into value betting...

Out of Position:

Look to make bigger and more frequent value bets on drier boards. This is because it is less likely your opponent was chasing a draw, and if he called the turn he is probably willing to go to showdown. Look to make bets 1/4-1/3PSB if you think he was calling with middle pair or an underpair to the board (8-8 on a "10" high board). If you think (due to the fact he raised you on the flop or called a larger than 1/2PSB bet on the turn) your opponent has TP or something better but isn't great (bottom two pair), then you should bet 1/3PSB or slightly larger. 1/2PSB will work against looser players.

When the board has a "drawy" texture (i.e. Js-10h-8h-2c-4d), and you think your opponent is more likely than usual to be holding a draw, look to check more to him (just called your flop and turn bets). Since he most likely doesn't have a hand that will call a value bet (most players won't call with a missed draw in this spot), you have to give him a situation he might want to bluff in (you showing some weakness and checking the river is the best idea i can think of - maybe someone will have some other tactics to apply to this situation).

In Position:
The advice doesn't really change for drier boards. Just make a modest river bet that gives him tempting odds to call (around or >5:1 pot odds, and it seems like people will call with almost any pair). One different with "drawy" boards is that you be more likely than usual to use an overbet or PSB on river, hoping to tempt your opponent who may just have a weak hand or missed draw with big overcards into making a hero call.

There's a crappy ahk script called FTBuddies:

http://overcards.com/wiki/moin.cgi/FullTiltBuddies

You can type your buddies into it, or add them from the tables, and it will automate the search for them. I say it's crappy because, 1) you can't really do anything on your computer while it's searching, if you're typing it screws it up, and it needs control over your windows, 2) it periodically deletes your buddy list, so you need to constantly keep it backed up, and 3) the guy who made it doesn't support it anymore. Still, it's better than nothing.

I hope someone who knows about programming gets interested in making a better version of this. I would pay up for that service.


Didn't play today. I worked all day and went out tonight.

300 hands, +$50.

6Max is actually a nice change of pace from full ring. Today i played mostly 100NL 6Max, with 1 table of 50NL6Max running for a while.

I will play another small session tonight, though it will probably be full ring.


One hand in particular gave me problems in this session. Usually i give up on the turn in this spot but i figured it was more than likely he was holding a draw.

Good/Bad Bet?

FullTiltPoker Game #2309066497: Table Bevvie (6 max) - $0.50/$1

Hero: ($133.90)
Villan: ($78.15)
4 other players

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [Qs Ah]
3 folds
Villan: calls $1
Player 1: calls $0.50
Hero: raises to $5
Villan: calls $4
Player 1: folds
*** FLOP *** [9d Td 4h]
Hero: bets $7.40
Villan: calls $7.40
*** TURN *** [9d Td 4h] [Th]
Hero: bets $20

that bet is really bad

I would be interested in hearing about why many of the American players on this forum play on Pokerstars. Is Pokerstars VIP program > most rakeback offers? Are the players on Pokerstars significantly weaker?

Currently i am getting 27% RB on FullTilt, but i threw $450 onto Pokerstars today to begin liquidating my ePassporte account. This is because long term i think i am going to want to be able to play on two sites for a larger player base to choose from.

So, since i am planning on playing on Pokerstars a little bit to help get my Bankroll up to 200-400NL, i am wondering what % of my hours played i should spend on Pokerstars/FullTilt.

To help with that question, i would like to be a Goldstar VIP Member with 10k (depositing ~4k during the year on Pokerstars) by 01/08. I plan to start at 50NL, but i will be depositing so i don't think playing underrolled is as big of a concern. Unfortunately, i can't use their deposit bonus since i used to play there before i began playing on FullTilt/Absolute for the rakeback.

First session on Pokerstars not so good...

Well, i made a huge donk play for stacks. I knew it was bad as i was doing it - i can't believe i didn't stop myself.

Lots of bad players. I am not happy that i didn't walk away with their money. I actually was starting to tilt after my dumb play, so i decided to stop.

200 hands, -$50.

One plus was i got 100 FPP's!

good news for me, you will be off my tables more lol and i when you play 200nl too.
i thought ive heard that pokerstars points system is better than rb but i think thats once you get to a high level in the vip program... but thats just what i remember hearing so dont take my word for it.
you said that you review a lot of your hand histories... thats something i need to do more, actually just post more hands too.
as for improving your table selection, obviously you want high players per flop and high pot sizes, but i also look at who is on the table too, if theres to many regulars i dont like to sit down and im sure atleast on full tilt you know who most of the regulars are.

Played on FullTilt for this tiny session.

Well, i just felt like playing some SNG's. I made +$85 in 2 $33 Turbos.

...While i played around 100 hands of 100NL FR for +$10.

Total profits for this week:
(-$25) + (-$220) + ($20) + (-$10) + ($200) + ($50) + (-$50) + ($95) + ($70 - RB) = $130

Grand Total =$525

In 8 days school will be over and i will be playing closer to 15k hands a week. I don't think i will reach my goal of being at 200NL by 5/07, but i will keep playing and see if i can make it to 4k and give it another shot.

100 hands of 100NL FR, -$50. 9 SNG's, -$20.

I made an absolutely terrible turn bet in my cash game. So bad, i actually turned red when he shoved over me

The SNG's i just got drawn out on.

Nothing to report, except that i am going to go see Hot Fuzz tonight!

Might play some poker when i get back.

Good session. 600 hands...

100NL FR on FullTilt: +$150
50NL FR on Pokerstars: +$120

I actually got drawn out on several times, but a ton of overbets i made on the river with monster hands got looked up.

Huh. 800 hands, -$100

100NL FR on FullTilt: -$160
50NL FR on Pokerstars: +$60

I got stacked 100BB @ FullTilt by a 2 outer on the river.
I got pwned by a fish twice - this was worse than the 2 outer.


I saw Fnord tonight, i think. Unless someone copycatted his name...

My reason for writing this is i don't think i am winning nearly enough with J-J/Q-Q. I have won twice as much with A-Ks as i have with both of these pairs combined.

And, before you read this, understand that i am calling preflop with J-J/Q-Q at most 1/3rd of the time, since preflop conditions frequently vary and the following post is revolving around a fairly specific preflop series of actions.

Lately i have been thinking that, when faced with a preflop raise, calling with J-J/Q-Q is better, when...

1). No one has just called the initial raise. Since i don't want to play a multiway pot with a hand that will likely remain just a pair, i would then want to reraise to isolate if anyone else was in the pot besides the raiser.

2). It keeps the pot from getting too big before you know where you are in the hand.

3). You are in the CO or the Button. Otherwise, the likelihood of the pot becoming multiway increases and you allow more players behind you better odds to call preflop.

4). The players in the blinds aren't very loose. Otherwise, you are more likely than usual to end up in a multiway pot. Although i do think a pot played in this way will end up being 3 way at least 1/3rd of the time, since the BB is getting a good price to see the flop.


I still like just calling preflop because then your big pair is well concealed, and (provided you do this only in the CO/BTN against an earlier raiser) you will always have position on your opponent. You want position for all the reasons that position is good, but in this scenario it allows you to build a bigger pot against a hand that stands to be weaker than yours by getting to stick in a raise on the flop. Average players with hands like TPTK will often lose around 50BB's in this situation, while they otherwise would've folded the hand preflop had you raised.


But, there are many other scenarios where raising preflop would be +EV or less -EV.
1). you flop a set against K-K+. It is tough to get good opponents to play for stacks in an unreraised pot. While you likely would have won 100BB's, you will probably only get 50BB's.
2). the board comes out draw heavy and your opponent 4bets the flop/calls your reraise and bets the turn. You probably lose 20BB's in this situation.
3). you are against K-K+ and no overcards come on the board. You probably lose 35-50BB's in this situation.
4). one Ace or King hits the flop, and your opponent sticks with you to the turn if you raised, or you call the flop and he bets the turn again. You probably lose an average of -15BB's in this situation.


All of that and more in mind, is it better to "slowplay" J-J/Q-Q preflop in this situation as opposed to raising?


As a follow up question, if you think raising preflop is better in LP, under what circumstances would you just call with J-J/Q-Q preflop?



I edited this quite a bit since cardsman looked at the post. Things are written and organized a little more clearly now, for future readers . My apologizies to him.

If I am first in with JJ/QQ I will rarely limp, and only as a change up.

I reraise these in position (as well as other hands).

I don't like to reraise them out of position unless the guy sucks.

If a tight guy raises, I like to call for set value and am quick to dump them if I miss. I think you ask for trouble trying to reraise a tighty because they aren't laying down anything that beats you and likely dump hands you are ahead of like 99/TT.

I wouldn't felt QQ/JJ preflop at $100, but I certainly would at $25 and maybe even $50, and I would consider it at 6max up to $100 depending on how bad the guy sucked.


QQ/JJ are classic "win a small pot lose a big pot hands" like AA/KK. I would expect you would win half as much $ with them as you would with AA/KK.

You will get a flop you don't like at least a third of the time or maybe even more. The times you take it down with a cbet should equal out the times you get outflopped......

I know I am forgetting something but I need to get some sleep....5:30 rolls around too early!

600 hands...

50NL FR on Pokerstars: -$100

I got lol pwned. No major mistakes, just a bad run of cards.

My post before this is a much better read btw so check it out plz

you could just be running bad with jj/qq? it could also be something like you are paying off too much when you are beat with them postflop.... i dont know, but i dont like just calling preflop unless i feel that just playing for set value would be better than just being aggressive with it.

150 hands, +$100

I played 1 table of 6Max and 1Table of FR.

I have one hand for discussion. I think i need to c/f turn, and i wonder about my c/r on the flop. Thoughts?

My opponent is a 100-200NL Regular, who is a very good FR player in my Pokertracker database over a couple thousand hands.

FullTiltPoker Game #2339196348: Table Old Harbor - $0.50/$1

Villan: ($122.90) (25/20/5)
Hero: ($102)
5 other players

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [As Ac]
3 folds
Villan: raises to $3.50
1 fold
Vi-Popsmak raises to $14
1 fold
Villan: calls $10.50
*** FLOP *** [8c 9c Tc]
Hero: checks
Villan: bets $9
Hero: raises to $31
Villan: calls $22
*** TURN *** [8c 9c Tc] [Qh]
Hero: checks
Villan: goes AI
Hero: ?

If I am first in with JJ/QQ I will rarely limp, and only as a change up.

I reraise these in position (as well as other hands).

I don't like to reraise them out of position unless the guy sucks.

If a tight guy raises, I like to call for set value and am quick to dump them if I miss. I think you ask for trouble trying to reraise a tighty because they aren't laying down anything that beats you and likely dump hands you are ahead of like 99/TT.

I wouldn't felt QQ/JJ preflop at $100, but I certainly would at $25 and maybe even $50, and I would consider it at 6max up to $100 depending on how bad the guy sucked.


QQ/JJ are classic "win a small pot lose a big pot hands" like AA/KK. I would expect you would win half as much $ with them as you would with AA/KK.

You will get a flop you don't like at least a third of the time or maybe even more. The times you take it down with a cbet should equal out the times you get outflopped......

I agree open limping with J-J/Q-Q is not a good play. I also agree that keeping the pot small when OOP, except against truly bad players, is a good idea. I also like the idea of playing these hands for set value against nits most of the time, at least until you get a better idea of whether he has missed overs or a big pair. How do you play this OOP to a 3bet preflop against a standard TAG at 100NL FR? Do you c/r flop, call and play for set value, c/c lead turn? Against a LAG?

I agree that an "ugly" flops (monotone, Ace or King high) occur at least 1/3rd of the time. I think the roughly equal % of taking the pot down versus getting raised/called on the flop is an interesting observation. That 50/50 seems to me like it would be kind of an important number for something. I just can't seem to take it that extra step to analyze why it seems important right now, except that it makes the mathematical + or - of raising preflop zero, since even if the pot is bigger on the flop you don't stand to win more % wise as opposed to a small pot on the flop, though it is true that your hand seems weaker when you just call preflop instead of 3bet.

you could just be running bad with jj/qq? it could also be something like you are paying off too much when you are beat with them postflop.... i dont know, but i dont like just calling preflop unless i feel that just playing for set value would be better than just being aggressive with it.

lol, i wish i was just running bad with J-J/Q-Q. I think i just suck with them at this point in my poker career. I bet i am spewing too much postflop with these hands. Actually i am thinking that we can pick off a lot of c-bet with these hands if we just call in LP, which was the main reason why i asked about how people play J-J/Q-Q in LP. As for the postflop spewing i am probably doing with these hands, i think just letting them go more on the turn will help a lot and giving flop reraises more respect when it is needed.


I think i wanted to post something else but i can't remember right now.

I remember now...

I want to do a mini operation!

I looked at the other 100NL regs who have operation blogs on this forum, and realized their BB/100's were at least twice as high as mine. I was mostly 6-8 tabling this month, and i know that i was playing like a robot for most of my sessions, since i was running so many tables. I have also realized as of late that my game has a lot of leaks that i didnt even notice, to the point where i am probably spewing literally thousands of dollars over the course of a month that i could probably avoid if i just closed a few tables and focused more on what i was doing. Obviously i win less, but i lose less too when i am playing 3-5 tables instead of 6-8. I hope to accomplish a few things while i decrease the number of tables i am running:

1). Really practice table selection. Fish find before i sit down, FR tables with 20BB+ Average pot and 35%+ players to a flop.

2). Identify and correct many more leaks in my game, since i will be paying more attention.

3). Use reads and notes more effectively while playing.

4). Incorporate new concepts and ideas i am learning from this forum, as well as some stuff i observed while watching some cardrunner videos (i joined last night). I think this will be a lot easier to do while i am running less tables

My goal: at least 15k hands 3-5 tabling with 4BB/100 or higher, alternating between 6Max and Full Ring. Obviously variance can just decide to pwn my mission but i think i will be able to tell if i am running bad or am still playing like a donk.

I mean, with all the basic leaks i still have in my game, i can probably make the same amount of money playing 8 tables as i can doing 4 tables, even though i get a lot more in rb with more tables running. And, if i plan on actually winning at mid stakes, i need to get a lot better.

re: the hand two posts above. I don't mind your line. I probably bet the flop, 3-bet push, but I don't mind the c/r as a change of pace. As played, it looks like you may have induced a bluff on the turn, so call that push. If he does have a K, then you still have 9 clean outs.

700 hands, +$270.

A mix of 100NL 6Max and 100/200NL FR on FullTilt. Pretty much even profits at both limits. I ran 3-4 tables, and found some very weak players and did a good job of taking money off of them. I might post some hands tomorrow - i am going out soon.

I might play some 20 Table tourneys on Pokerstars later tonight when i get back.

1000 hands, +$100.

Mix of 100, 200 NL 6Max and some 100, 200 NL FR on FullTilt. I felt like the first half of the session was some of the best poker i have ever played; cardrunners.com is such an awesome teaching tool. The second half was where i started to win money, but i had to luckbox 2 big pots (1 30/70 and 1 40/60 for +$400 total) to get it.



What should i do on the turn in this hand? I don't like my preflop 3bet, and i wonder if i should just fold on the flop but i am unsure of what would be the best way to proceed. Comments on all streets appreciated.

FullTiltPoker Game #2359425222: Table Elkington (6 max) - $0.50/$1

Seat 1: Hero: ($104.55)
Seat 2: Villan: ($104.6)

*** HOLE CARDS ***
Dealt to Hero: [As 8s]
Villan: raises to $3.50
Hero: raises to $13
4 folds
Villan: calls $9.50
*** FLOP *** [Th 5d Ad]
Villan: bets $10
Hero: calls $10
*** TURN *** [Th 5d Ad] [Ah]
Villan: bets $10
Hero: ?

Week 4 Results: (-$70) + ($270) + (-$100) + (-$100) + ($100) + ($270) + ($100) + ($60 - RB) = +$530

Grand Total: +$1055


Almost a 30 Day Period now, and technically i am up +$2155 (I went on a huge rush over 4k hands the night before i started my operation). Most of this was playing 10-15 hours/week. Counting my heater in the earlier part of April i have "averaging" good variance during this period. Still, i am quite happy with the result since i plan on being able to play twice as many hours a week when i am done working. I have also learned a ton about poker since the start of the my operation, which is good because i need to be a much better poker player than i am right now if i want to make a good living playing poker full time.

Long story short, so far so good.

Plan: Make 10k by 9/07

Goal: Play 100k hands by 9/07


Benchmarks:

By September:
I hope to have a 15-17k Bankroll. This puts me in a really good position to begin taking shots at 400NL. If I am below 12k by September, I ought to be planning on either going to school full time.

By November:
I hope to have a 20k Bankroll. This puts me within reaching distance of my 25k Bankroll, and at which point I will have 2 months to make 5k (12.5 buy ins) at 400NL. That is an average of .25 buy ins a day – quite easy playing 15hrs/wk with any win rate. If I am below 17k by November, I ought to be planning on either going to school full time.

By January:
If everything has gone close to plan, I should be anywhere between 22-25k, and be comfortable “rolled” to go full time. If I am below 19k by January, I ought to be planning to go to school full time.


Stop Loss:

Assuming I start with a 25k Bankroll when I begin playing in January:

I figure that a 10 buy in downswing can easily be normal variance. Anything significantly over that is more likely the result of poor play or being at a limit I cannot win at. So, in my mind losing 8k is a reasonable stop loss goal, since that is the equivalent of 20 buy ins at 400NL, the limit I plan to be playing at. Should i drop around 20 buy ins, i will at that point sign up for the fall semester as a full time student.


Well, i tossed out the math i had earlier. The benchmarks still seemed relevant so i left them.

Holy shit.

i like your math.

My only problem with what i see in your thread is that i can sit at a 100nl 6max or full ring game running fairly good and put together a run 0f 10bbs+ on 15k samples.
You dont seem to run much better than 5-6bbs/100 even at bets which suggests you need to work on post flop play.

Theres little doubt you are a winning player, but at the moment i see you as a numbers grinder rather than a player with a much higher skill level than those you play with.
Maybe its just the games you play in, but even on stars when i run good i run 10bbs/100+ good even versus good players...

just my 2cents.

My only problem with what i see in your thread is that i can sit at a 100nl 6max or full ring game running fairly good and put together a run 0f 10bbs+ on 15k samples.
You dont seem to run much better than 5-6bbs/100 even at bets which suggests you need to work on post flop play.

Theres little doubt you are a winning player, but at the moment i see you as a numbers grinder rather than a player with a much higher skill level than those you play with.
Maybe its just the games you play in, but even on stars when i run good i run 10bbs/100+ good even versus good players...

I agree that my postflop is average at best. Since Wednesday when i finally signed up at cardrunners.com, i have seen probably a dozen videos and taken 3 or 4 tips away from each one. I have tons of scrap paper all around my desk with new lines and notes on good/bad c-bet flop textures. I hope Massimo doesn't mind me reading his thread after my little fit.

I actually am happy, but not content, that i am a winning player. I recall posting a hand when i first joined where i called 3 streets OOP with A-9 (TPTK) on a monotone flop against an unknown (i didn't have PT or take notes ). Everyone was like, "dude he has a set", and i was like, "no he was bluffing i wuz sure of it" . I think i dropped about 15 buy ins at 100NL before i started to turn it around (no PT to document it, but i know i blew through all the money i won playing SNG's that summer and a lucky cash in the Sunday Million). I feel i have come a long way in the last 7 months (ty FTR).

My table selection has improved dramatically in the last month. I can now find 1-2 fish at any table i am sitting at. I am also actively isolating them now. So hopefully it isn't the games i am sitting in anymore that is hurting my BB/100.

The thing i am most happy about today with poker is that this time, unlike a few weeks ago, i have zero doubt i can win at 200NL.