Is Your Play Too Predictable?
By Debbie Burkhead

If you are a regular on the tournament scene and haven't won or placed in almost three years, it's time to critique your play. Something is definitely wrong with your game and it's high time you make some chances. Obviously you can't win every tournament you enter, but avid tournament players should win, place or show once in a while.

I know of a once-successful tournament player has not taken a 1st place in almost three years. No places or shows to speak of either. This particular player is not used to losing and I'm sure is somewhat bewildered and perplexed at what's happening regarding their play.

Of course there could be several reasons that could contribute to their losing, but after several conversations with their opponents, the conclusion is that their play is too predictable. This player prides themselves on being a tournament specialist. They play an average of three to four small weekly tournaments. This player does not travel the major tournament circuit with any regularity but they do play some of the mid range tournaments here and there.

Because this player has become so predictable, their opponents find them easy to read. They rarely -- if ever -- change their game plan, so their opponents always know what they're up against. That's a huge advantage. If you are constantly able to read your opponent's play, that's half the battle.

Their predictability is costing them wins, not to mention lots of money. They're not getting the value out of their good hands which means they never amass any significant amount of chips. This is where you might want to rethink waiting for a premium hand. The longer you wait the less ammo you have to protect that premium hand.

Being on a three-year drought also causes ones self-confidence to diminish. Losing your self-confidence makes you more vulnerable. Your opponents have a huge advantage if they know they can intimidate you.

My advise to this type of player would be to change their play. Take some chances, gamble a little. I'm not advising you to play like an idiot, but try raising with a 7-8 suited for a change. You don't always need pocket rockets or A-K to raise a pot.

Learn to bluff. Pick a spot or an opponent you feel you can bluff and bet with confidence. Try showing a bluff to change that predictable image you have. Don't get carried away with showing bluffs that can backfire on you.

You can't always wait for premium hands, sometimes you have to make things happen. I believe the image of being predictable increases the success of bluffing. If you learn the art of bluffing it could be a huge advantage that could be financially rewarding.

If you can't start a tournament feeling confident about winning, my advise would be not to enter at all. Your attitude and confidence is all part of the game. Never let your opponents know they intimidate you, even if they do.

Now go out there and show them you can win.