Very few players have a good understanding of luck. This is not surprising because we are not naturally predisposed to interpret semi-random events correctly. To begin with, there are just too many variables to process.
In last month’s issue of Bluff Europe, I highlighted the errors the poker press commit when making predictions in poker [You’re fired – Ed.]. I promised to follow this up in part two of my article by doing some “good science” on the predictions Bluff Europe had made about some young internet guns who would be going to the WSOP for the first time.
Jake: “Being young we don't really have bills or mortgages to pay or any major debts so it is much easier. Basically money isn't a problem for us, which is fortunate. We're in a situation where we can play poker all the time with no pressure.”
Dear Dr Tom,
When is it a good spot to float a flop with air and when is it not?
Vaz, London
I often talk scornfully about “flair” in poker and very often I’m referring to little more than a mindless act by a poker player of any ability. There are, however, instances of true flair that deserve recognition, even if that recognition is from a player with little personal flair, such as me. In fact, the most flair I ever display is when my jumper has more than one colour in it.