To me, there are several ways to go into tourneys... I like to have a gameplan in mind from the beginning... For example.. I start off super aggressive but tight... Make sure I can double or triple up early so I can skate my way into a prize.. But I always find myself succumbing to the ALL IN even when I fully positioned for a prize almost no matter what.
So you are a TAG player early on? That's pretty common as many people like to protect their hands and play only premiums. When you say you succumb, what do you mean exactly? Are you always shoving all in? Are you calling all ins? How about pot control? Have you studied or practiced pot control with large stacks?
My questions to you are;
What do you guys suggest is the best strategy for tournaments?
That's a broad question and it depends on the stakes, amount of people, guarantee, etc. If you are typically playing micro stakes tournaments, I would suggest playing TAG like you have been, control pots and play for value. Focus on your play and the play of others. Take notes and really focus in. As the blinds start to rise start broadening your range and make some plays for pot. Tournaments, as we all know, are insanely tough to WIN. You either need a big break (luck) or you need to make some moves.
How to say no to an ALL IN you think you can beat?
Why are you saying no? Is it your gut? Is it the situation? if you think you can beat it why would you fold?
Is there a way to play tourneys and never go all in until you are placed?
Is it best to start agressive or slow...
I know some players try their best not to get all in. I have heard Phil Hellmuth say a few times he has done this. However, it is not always the right strategy. Are you not going to go all in if you have the nuts or a solid boat or flush? What if your gut is telling you along with notes that the player is bluffing? There is an old saying..."scared money don't make money".
In my personal opinion is best to play TAG early on in big tournaments with slow or regular structures. For turbos or higher I would suggest opening up a bit more early on.
PLEASE HELP!!
THANKS,
ALEX