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If you’re entering a large poker tournament, the game requires a much different strategy than traditional table games or small tournaments. A large part of tournament play is about surviving the early rounds while building up a bankroll into the latter stages so you can effectively compete with the larger players. The goal of entering a large tournament is either to cash in – to survive until the cash round – or to make it to the cutoff for winning entry into a larger tournament such as a satellite. In order to help navigate the tables at large scale tournaments, this guide walks you through the various stages of the games.

Always pay close attention to how other players utilize their stacks to determine their strategies. Some aggressive players take a “go for broke” strategy which aims to go big or go home. At the same time, you may notice more passive players waiting for a big hand. Since players rotate at major tournament tables, taking note of new player behavior can help you properly adjust your strategy for each stage of the game.

Early Tournament Play

Most modern tournaments take a freeze out format, which means there are no re-buys so a losing player is eliminated from the tournament. As a result, most players begin the game waiting for a big hand to maximize their chances of doubling up. This is a good strategy to start with but you can also benefit by taking advantage of the timidity of other players to become selectively aggressive.

For instance, suppose you enter a hand with J-10 suited and the flop comes K-Q-3 where you hit only three of your suit with an open ended straight draw. While you might believe you opponent is holding a king, re-raising aggressively might signal you have a set (three of a kind) or two pair. By moving all in you force your opponent to risk their entire stack on a gamble – in many cases you can get your opponent to fold on this basis. Since the blinds and antes are relatively low you can carefully pick the spots in which you are aggressive, maximizing your chances of making the right move when you finally do.

Middle Game Play

In the later rounds, as play becomes more competitive, its important to update your personal strategy. Blinds and antes increase in these later rounds, so time becomes crutial, requiring you to play more rounds. While a more open approach may have to be adopted pre-flop, you should continue tight aggressive play post-flop utilizing your read on your competitors along with the cards.

Try to stay away from players with large stacks who could put you all in based upon a bluff forcing you into a tough decision. Instead wait for an opening that will allow you to double up against a weaker player or take several smaller pots to build your stack. This kind of careful play can help you find your way with a strong hand into the later stages of the tournament.

The author is a successful limit cash game player. He plays poker online and receives Absolute Rakeback and Full Tilt Poker Rakeback.

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