Positional play

[beachal]

I'm confused about how I should play when my position will change after the flop. For example, if I'm to the immediate right of the button, should I play before the flop as though I'm middle position (since I don't know what the blinds will do) or as though I'm late (which I will be after the flop, no matter what the blinds do)?

Or if I'm to the left of the big blind, I have to act early preflop, but after I might act third or fourth. So should my starting standards be those of early position?
Thanks.

[K-rug]

That's a very open question. Lots of factors such as your cards, the types of players around you, the amount of chips you have and betting limits if any would come into play. You should not be looking for a one size fits all answer because there is none. There may be some guidelines but that's about it.

You play the players, the cards and the chips at the moment you have action. I personally play each hand one round at a time. Because if you start to think about the next round and try to bait someone in or slow play it you will burn yourself more times than not. Assuming all things equal, players skill, chip count and a decent hand I would play it aggressively and put others to a decision.

But again... That's a very open ended question with a lot of factors.

[beachal]

Thanks, that does help. I was beginning to feel like I was missing some opportunities looking for a "one size fits all" strategy. And also like I was overthinking this aspect. I loose track of "play the players" when I still have to think so hard about basic strategy decisions, feel pressure to act quickly, etc.

[humbleman]

That pressure you are feeling will dissipate as you get more playing time under your belt. Unless you keep playing with different players all the time, you'll find yourself making a lot of decisions automatically and they will usually be the right ones. Nothing substitutes for playing time though, get in and stay in the arena

[K-rug]

The best advice I can give you is:
Go with your guy

To many times I find myself entertaining that gambler in me. Then I snap to and my guts says, "Fool! Fold! Don't chase that straight! or Don't try to bluff this one you know you are beat!". My gut's usually right. But sometimes I listen to that gambler. He usually gives crappy advice.

[saper88aa]

Go with your feel,and all the other factors mentioned.Its been said before,you cant win the trney on day 1.