I don’t know about you, but I am a multi-tasker. Nowadays I have two 19” flat screens set up side-by-side (sweeeeeeet) and want to go four screens soon! My babies are loaded with poker tables, forex quotes, opened chess games, my emails and a browser on the side. Let's focus on the poker aspect. Multi-tabling poker cannot only be fun, but can also add significantly to your bottom line. It can provide additional fun, challenges, and help you to work off bonuses much faster. In this article, we look at some essential things you should do or be aware of if you decide to multi-table Omaha 8.

Why Multi-table O8? 

Many players think that Omaha high/low is not well suited to multi-tabling. Yet I have multi-tabled profitably with up to 15 tables simultaneously. While that seems rather excessive, I see no reason why others could not get to that level profitably. The common myth is that omaha high/low allows one to play more hands than hold'em. The truth of the matter is that one should play fewer hands. (See my earlier articles for discussion and comparison to hold'em.) This fact suggests that multi-tabling omaha ought to be easier, or at least somewhat less demanding, than multi-tabling hold'em. The following essentials will get you started:

Essential #1: Start Low 

When you start something, anything, you are usually as bad as you will ever be at it. The same concept applies to multi-tabling. If you are just starting out, the chances are that your multi-tabling skills are at their low point. Starting low makes sense. For example, if your usual limit is $3/$6, you might want to try multi-tabling at $1/$2. You will likely make some mistakes in the beginning. Make them as inexpensive as possible. Trying multi-tabling with play money might be a bright idea. In any case, it is likely not a good idea to add multiple tables at the limit you normally play.

Essential #2: No Ace, No Play 

If there is not an ace in your hand, fold your hand without thinking twice. Fold automatically unless you are in the blinds. You will not be losing much following this rule. Most players lose money with hands that do not have an ace. Of course, hands such as KQ23 (double suited) or 2345 are profitable if played correctly, but these can be tricky. Playing with only an ace reduces the complexity of play and allows you to handle multiple tables with greater ease without giving up significant edges.

Essential #3: High and Low Coordination

Your ace has to coordinate with other cards in meaningful ways. You should have a 2 or a 3 going with it for low. Counterfeit protection, such as a 4 or a 5 is an added bonus. For the high side, your ace should be either suited or have some compatibility with other cards. Fold unless your ace is reasonably coordinated with other cards in both directions. It may seem that this hand requirement is way too stringent, but it is based on solid strategy. You will not have a lot of time to make a decision with many tables. Consequently, you prefer to have solid holdings and be in fewer hands. Think of that every time you are tempted to play marginal hands.

Essential #4: Four Color Deck 

Most sites allow you to play with a four color deck. It is a big help while multi-tabling because it allows you to process information faster. You don't have to waste time by distinguishing hearts from diamonds, and spades from clubs. Colors will help you coordinate better than suits. You will be able to tell right away without additional processing. Your brain recognizes colors faster than suits.

Essential #5: Special Table Attention 

While you multi-table, you will notice that some tables can be beat on "auto-pilot", while others cannot. Some tables will have maniacs, players on tilt, and, in some cases, good players. These tables will require special attention. You will have to spend more time making decisions on those tables. I found the best strategy is to group them together on your screen. I have two screens so it is easier to put the "easy" ones on one screen, and the "tricky" ones on the other. If you have just a single screen and multi-table four or less tables, you can likely fit them all on the same screen and watch them simultaneously. However, most players cannot afford that luxury with five tables or more. If you are one of them, you may have to "cascade" the tables. Have the tricky ones in positions where they are more visible. You want to see the action happen on the tricky ones. It will require more effort and attention to beat those, assuming you have the necessary skills.

Essential #6: Over-tabling Signs 

How many tables can you handle? I found a good way to tell. Whenever I face two or more difficult decisions simultaneously, more than 10 percent of the time I know I am "over-tabling". There are, of course, other ways to tell. If there are a bunch of windows blinking on your screen and you just feel overwhelmed, you are playing over your head. If your earning rate drops after you started multi-tabling, you are likely over-playing. If you miss plays because you don't make them in time, you are over-tabling.

Conclusion 

Multi-tabling does not have to be rocket science. Stick to the essentials in the beginning. You will likely develop and expand these rules in time as they best suit you. With discipline, patience, and good management of the process, your earn rate will likely experience a significant increase. Try it out!

Happy Playing!

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