How to Move Up from $1-2 to $2-5 in Live Poker

Are you struggling to move up in poker stakes? This process can be quite frustrating if you don't know the right steps to take. That's where this video comes in: I provide a 5-step system to help you make the climb in stakes with as little pain and friction as possible. This video focuses on the most common jump that live poker players make: The jump from $1/2 to $2/5 No Limit Hold'em. At the end of this video, you’ll have the blueprint to make the climb towards a bigger and potentially more rewarding game.

Watch Video Below: How to MOVE UP in Live Poker Stakes

A brief summary of the video can be found below:

Step 1: Bankroll Planning and Session Tracking

• Having a separate poker bankroll with a minimum of 20 buy-ins for the current game is essential, and it should be left alone to grow without withdrawing from it throughout the year

• A stop-loss of 10% of the bankroll per night is recommended to protect against significant losses

• Tracking results and being disciplined in bankroll management is crucial for a successful transition

  
  

Step 2: Study Live Poker Preflop Charts

• Reviewing live poker pre-flop charts, ideally at the 200 big blind stack depth, can help improve playability and set a player apart from their opponents who often have significant preflop leaks

• Using charts from a reputable company that understands live poker nuances is recommended, rather than relying on GTO charts. You can contact joel@pto-poker.com to receive the FREE PTO Poker preflop charts.

  
  

Step 3: Focus on Exploiting Opponent Mistakes

• Focusing on exploiting opponent mistakes rather than playing perfect theory can help a player move up in stakes more efficiently

• Spotting mistakes and adjusting to counter them is a key skill to develop, and it is more important than knowing perfect theoretical play

  
  

Step 4: Analyze Three Hands From Each Session

• Analyzing three hands from every session can help improve poker skills by identifying areas for improvement and building a more active learning style

• Using an equity calculator to review hands can help determine if decisions were correct based on equity and pot odds

• Writing down uncertain hands and reviewing them later can help free up mental bandwidth and improve decision-making

  
  

Step 5: Shot Take in a Smart Way

• Shot taking should be done with a set aside bankroll to ensure comfort returning to the previous stake level in case of loss

• Playing at the higher stake level requires preparation and sticking to one's game, rather than making premature adjustments

• Timing the shot take to avoid stressful periods and playing during times with more casual players can help with the transition

If you have been wanting to move up in poker and are struggling to take the next step, contact Joel Wald today at joel@pto-poker.com or book a free 30-minute Zoom call to discuss how PTO Poker can help you reach your poker goals.