1st Post. Perfecting the art of ICM(?)

[bmoneymusic1]

Hey guys,

I've been following the board for close to a month and have gained an overwhelming amount of information. It's well run and just figured I'd say it's been a pleasure to read what I have so far and hope I can contribute (I usually don't post on discussion boards).

I've started playing $3 + .40 SnG's at Poker Stars and I've made a good effort to learn how to beat them. I've read all the informational posts on here and I've gotten pretty good at spot ICM calculations (not exact but I have a good idea where I stand) and I've started reviewing all my games on Sit N Go Wizard. I play tight early on and loosen up around 25/50 and 50/100 and push appropriately and get pretty good reads. What else is there as far as big picture things go?

I don't have a big sample rate but I'm still finishing in 4th and 5th place far more than I'm finishing in the money. I wanted to make sure there wasn't a BIG thing that I have been oblivious to that makes a difference. In summary:

1. I play tight early on (only super premium hands and some pocket pairs are limped for set value).
2. I loosen up a bit around 25/50 and 50/100
3. I play hands appropriately (as far as Sit n Go Wizard is concerned) for push/fold.
4. I've been able to do pretty well at reading those who I can push more than others and those that I have to be a bit more conservative with.
5. I don't make MANY bonehead decisions (I'm still learning though, ha)

Any thoughts? I'm going to start posting trouble hands and all that good stuff and I look forward to any guidance. I think if my basic idea of the game is all right that I'm looking at tips for trying to steal blinds.

Thanks everyone.

[GatorJH]

Any thoughts? I'm going to start posting trouble hands

This.

1) You may be playing too tight in the early stages or your definition of tight may not be tight enough.
2) You may be loosening up too much or not enough

I think you get the idea. Unless you post some hands or tourney's it is almost impossible to give you advice.

Oh, and welcome to FTR!!!!

[WeaselT]

watch bjsaust video he two tables 3.40 STTs. might be useful.

[taipan168]

Hi and welcome to FTR, thanks for de-lurking!

I agree with what Gator said, post some hands/tourneys for review, that's the best way to get advice. It's very hard to give general advice that is of much value since I don't disagree with your general approach.

[PokerBookie]

Welcome to FTR Forums.

[bjsaust]

Often when people try to "loosen up" they do it in the wrong ways. Best option is to post some tourneys, but my guess would be its in that area you need help.

[Roller]

I think your heading down the right path ....

I would suggest you play the situation instead of your cards at times.
This will give you the edge and get you closer to the Win.

Good Luck