How Do You Handle Variance in Poker?

In poker, variance is the UPS and downs that come with playing the game. It’s the difference between winning and losing sessions, and it’s what makes the game both exciting and frustrating.

Variance can be a good thing or a bad thing, depending on how you look at it. On one hand, it’s what makes poker so exciting.

PRO TIP:Variance in poker is an unavoidable part of the game. To help manage variance, focus on playing a solid, basic strategy and stick to it. Do not chase losses, and stay disciplined. Have a budget and stay within it; if you are not playing with money you can afford to lose, then you should not be playing at all. Don’t let your emotions get the best of you – take breaks when needed and remember to have fun!

The swings can be huge, and if you’re on a roll, you can make a lot of money in a short period of time. On the other hand, variance can be frustrating because it’s the reason why even the best players can have losing sessions.

The key to handling variance is to have a bankroll large enough to weather the storms, and to always keep your eye on the long-term. If you’re a winning player, then over time the variance will even out and you’ll end up in the black.

So how do you handle variance in poker? By understanding that it’s part of the game, and by having the bankroll to weather the storms.