Once you’re comfortable with the basics, it’s time to move beyond tight-aggressive play. Advanced strategy requires adapting to different situations and players while adding more tools to your game.
1. Learn to Read Opponents
Tight vs. loose: Do they play many hands or just a few?
Passive vs. aggressive: Do they check/call or bet/raise?
Use this information to exploit weaknesses. Against a tight-passive player, bluff more. Against a loose-aggressive one, trap them with strong hands.
2. Bluff with Purpose
Don’t bluff randomly. A good bluff tells a believable story. It should make sense given how the hand has played out. Ideal bluffing spots include:
Scare cards (an Ace or third suited card hitting the board)
Situations where you’ve shown strength (e.g., you raised pre-flop and bet on the flop)
3. Master Continuation Bets (C-Bets)
A continuation bet is when you raise pre-flop and then bet again on the flop. It’s a way to maintain pressure. However, don’t overdo it—only c-bet on boards that likely missed your opponent or when you’ve connected in some way.
4. Understand Board Texture
Evaluate how the community cards interact with possible hands:
Dry board: K-7-2 rainbow — good for bluffing
Wet board: 9♣ 8♣ 7♠ — many draws are possible, so be cautious
Board texture helps you decide whether to bet for value, slow-play, or bluff.
5. Use Semi-Bluffs
A semi-bluff is when you bet or raise with a drawing hand (like a flush or straight draw). Even if you’re behind, you have a good chance to improve. This move combines fold equity with hand equity.
6. Adapt to Table Dynamics
Some tables are tight, others are wild. Adjust your strategy:
Tight table: Steal blinds and bluff more
Loose table: Value bet your strong hands more aggressively
