How did you improve at SH play?

[osmosis21]

Nowadays there is yours and stox book along with sites like Deuces cracked to watch "experts" play and evaluate. When you were moving up you didnt have those avenues to help you improve.....

So how did you improve on your game to get to where you are now? What methods do you currently use to stay sharp?

[TerryBorer]

Almost everything I learned was from my own play. I never had a mentor which made things much more difficult for me. On the plus side I had played cards competitively in other games so I understood the value of hard work away from the table. We decided to write the book partially because it was what we wanted during our formative years. I remember keeping Middle-limit hold'em by my bedside table.

Specifically, I:
* Had other Team Flaccid members watch my play and provide feedback. It's hard to see your own flaws. Find someone you trust and talk to them. Hiring a coach is useful too if you can afford it. Our third author, Barry Tanenbaum is a really good coach and teaches out of Las Vegas.
* I worked hard away from the table and thought about the hands. I especially thought about what information my opponent had when making a play and not what my actual cards were.
* I took the game seriously and had a friendly competition with Lawrence to see who could win more. This kept me focused.
* I mentored someone closely. Teaching requires you to really understand the material and also to learn the point of view of anyone player. I learned a lot and my student is doing very well at the tables.
* I did not use forums very much. I found it hard to separate out the good advice from the useless, ego-ridden drivel of some posters. I think the forums are improving over time though and many excellent players volunteer their time. The posters on this forum seem very respectful and interested in helping.

On the subject of keeping sharp, I wrote a book which forced me to evaluate every aspect of my game and submit it to the scrutiny of several professional players. I had to examine various hand databases to evaluate whether my claims were true. I improved a lot through that process.

I read all the books that have come out on short-handed as well as books like Your Worst Poker Enemy that deal with soft skills. I also have been reading the forums a bit more. Everything pales to having a mentor sitting with you and watching you play though.

Hope that helps and good luck!

-- Terry