Poker tournaments seem to be the favorite setting for beginner players. After all, most people get into poker after hearing about the multi-million dollar prize pools offered in tournaments, and satellite scrub accountants-turned millionaires – a la Chris Moneymaker. But just as in any other form of poker, beginners are prone to big mistakes that are unfortunately repeated over and over again. Here are a few of the mistakes that beginners definitely need to avoid.
Trying to Double up Early
In order to win a poker tournament, you need to get everyone’s chips. That being said, too many beginners focus everything on doubling up early on just so they can establish themselves as a chip leader. Now if the chance arises – such as you getting pocket aces pre-flop and somebody is willing to call your all-in move – then by all means try to double up. However, don’t force it by going all-in with something like K-Q in the beginning.
Focusing on your own Hand
Another big mistake a lot of beginners make is only focusing on what they hold. Now you obviously want to be sure and have good cards before making any calls, raises, etc., but you also need to keep in mind what other players might hold. For instance, if you get a straight on a board of 9h-10s-Jh-3c-Kh, you definitely have a good hand. However, you also have to consider that somebody else could be holding a flush based on the board.
Going All-in Pre-flop too often
As mentioned before, if you can get somebody to go all-in with you pre-flop while holding aces or kings, this is a good risk to take. However, don’t get caught up in going all-in pre-flop because you will get burned more times than not. On a full table, it’s very likely that at least one hand can outdraw you after the flop.