Table Image

A lot has been written in poker books about establishing a table image-creating a false view of your playing style and habits in other players.

It’s a major topic of debate among poker players, writers, theorists, and analysts.

Until now there have been two sides to the debate.

One side says you should establish a tight, tough image because that gives you more opportunity to steal pots.

The other side says you should establish a loose, weak image because that will induce players to call you, creating larger pots when you win.

I’m going to introduce a third side to this debate: It doesn’t matter.

What matters is that you know what image other players do have of you and adjust accordingly.

Creating an image just isn’t the point.

It usually doesn’t work, and it often costs money to try. Just go with what you have.