Welcome to the July edition of our monthly poker blog!
Graphs of the Month
Check out this awesome journey from one of our students.
The first 2000 games were tough, as we can see from the graph, but they turned it around and ended up making $10k EV+RB.
Big props for sticking with it and grinding through the tough times. Hard work pays off!
This graph also shows how important Rakeback is in poker and how wise it is to be in the Pool to beat the variance.
Understanding Poker Variance and How to Manage It
Variance is an inevitable part of poker, especially in formats like Spin and Gos where the outcome can be influenced by short-term luck. Variance refers to the natural fluctuations in results due to the randomness of the cards dealt and the luck involved in individual games. Even the best players can experience downswings where they lose despite making optimal decisions.
Embrace the Reality of Variance
Understanding that variance is a fundamental aspect of poker is crucial. Accepting the ups and downs can help you maintain a positive mindset during tough periods. Remember, a single session or even a series of sessions does not define your skill level. Your long-term results are what truly matter.
Bankroll Management
One of the most effective ways to deal with variance is through proper bankroll management. By ensuring you have a sufficient bankroll, you can weather the storms of variance without going bust. A common recommendation is to have at least 100 buy-ins for the stakes you’re playing. This cushion allows you to survive downswings and continue playing optimally.
Focus on EV (Expected Value)
While short-term results can be affected by luck, focusing on EV helps you concentrate on making the best decisions possible. EV is a measure of the expected profit or loss from a particular play, considering all possible outcomes. By consistently making +EV decisions, you’ll ensure long-term profitability despite short-term variance.
Take Advantage of Pool, Rakeback and Rewards
As highlighted in our Graph of the Month, Rakeback and rewards can significantly boost your overall earnings. Many poker rooms offer Rakeback programs that return a portion of the rake you pay, helping to smooth out the effects of variance. Being part of these programs can turn a breakeven or slightly losing player into a profitable one.
Keep Improving Your Game
Continuous learning and improvement are key to overcoming variance. Analyzing your hands, studying poker theory, and seeking coaching can help you refine your strategy and make better decisions. The better your skills, the more you’ll be able to mitigate the impact of variance.
Mental Resilience
Maintaining mental resilience is vital in poker. Variance can be emotionally challenging, and staying calm and focused during downswings is essential. Developing a strong mindset, practicing mindfulness, and taking breaks when needed can help you stay on track.
Conclusion
Variance is a double-edged sword in poker, bringing both thrilling highs and frustrating lows. By understanding and embracing variance, practicing proper bankroll management, focusing on EV, leveraging Rakeback, continuously improving your game, and maintaining mental resilience, you can navigate the swings and emerge as a successful player in the long run. Keep grinding, stay positive, and remember that hard work and dedication will pay off.
SM Pool
Say Goodbye to Stress and Hello to Success!
What is a SM Pool? I’m glad you asked!
The SM Pool project is a unique initiative for Spin & Go players, designed to unite professionals in their quest to overcome variance. Spearheaded by SM Staking, a premier Spin & Go academy with 8 years of experience, the Pool aims to decrease the influence of deviation on players’ results.
In the SM Pool, prize money goes into a common pool and is split proportionally to each player’s EV (Expected Value) using a special EV formula. This system allows players to mitigate the impact of variance on their results.
How to Join
You can register for the Pool anytime and join as soon as you receive confirmation. A monthly fee is charged for participation, and after confirmation, you will be added to the Pool list from the next day.
SM Pool
Join our Discord to find out how to get an additional 40% affiliate Rakeback: https://discord.gg/ZhUA3QhzdC
Wrapping Up
Dealing with poker variance can be challenging, but it’s important to remember that variance is just part of the game. Joining the SM Pool can significantly help in managing this variance, providing a community of support and a structured approach to minimize the swings. By being part of the Pool, you can focus more on your game and less on the stress of individual results, knowing that your long-term success is being prioritized.
Maintaining a positive mindset is crucial in poker. Less stress leads to better decision-making and a more enjoyable playing experience. As you continue your poker journey, take moments to appreciate the progress you’ve made and the hard work you’ve put in. Surround yourself with a supportive community, like the one we have here at SM Staking, to share your victories and learn from your challenges.
Looking ahead, we are excited about the upcoming SM Staking Summer Bootcamp! This event is not only a chance to refine your skills but also an opportunity to connect with fellow players, exchange strategies, and enjoy some summer fun. In our next monthly edition, we’ll be sharing cool pictures and exciting updates from the bootcamp, so stay tuned!
Enjoy the summer, embrace the journey, and keep grinding with a positive mindset. Remember, hard work and dedication will always pay off.
