Playing Style and Odds Calculators

In Texas Holdem we need to vary our playing styles in each game or as a game develops. This is to baffle the opponent on what hand strength we have or on what we intend to do. In the course of emphasizing a particular style we need to have our adjustable odds calculator following suit.

It is advisable to opt for an odds calculator that automatically adjusts to our play and bet styles—or at least one that can be adjusted to them. Our play and bet style and odds calculation are interdependent. So when downloading an odds calculator software see if it is suitable to the style of playing we usually do.

If at pre-flop we often play loosely and the calculator pesters us to play tight and often fold, we'll have lots of trouble deciding which to follow—our play style or the calculator's advice. Or, if we want to change style to bluff but the calculator sticks to a course because it automatically calculates, we're also in trouble.

The best option then is to have an adjustable odds calculator that can automatically or manually perform. It should have a customized play setting to suit our specific preferences in each hand. It should also have safeguards that remind us of our limits. For instance, if we want to play a bit loosely, it warns us when our play becomes too loose.

Both Holdem Genius and Calculatem Pro possess these features that make our play relevant to what odds we have in the game. And the features are applicable at pre-flop and post flop plays. If we're the type to often wait patiently in big-stakes multi-table tournaments then we're better off switching our calculator indicator to a very tight setting.

It is also vital to change play and bet styles now and then. This is to avoid giving opponents poker tells. This is also a good way of bluffing. For instance, if we've been playing tight we may change to a loose play to pretend a strong hand. A tight image tells our opponents that we don't play second best hands. So the moment we get a second best hand we may bluff with it and hopefully force players to fold.

Or, we may play loosely and bet aggressively 2 or 3 times. Then, when we get a monster hand, we assume the same play and bet styles to give them the shock of their lives. The adjustable odds calculator will set our limits and give warnings in case we over bluff.