Tight play is the name of the game in the early stages of a multi-table tournament (MTT).

MTT's have become an extremely popular form of entertainment in different places around the world and today may be located at many online gaming sites. The MTT presents the opportunity for all types and levels of players to buy-in and experience tournament action. This means that many players who in the past would not have reached a tournament table now have the opportunity to do just that at the simple touch of a few buttons.

Recommendations for the early stages of MTT's

* One of the best recommendations for the early part of an MTT is for a player to concentrate on surviving during the early stages and on proceeding to the later stages of the tournament.

* At this part of the tournament, it is advisable to engage in tight play. It is best not to take great risks at this stage, bearing in mind that the main aim is to reach the final table.

* During the early stage of an MTT, it is preferable to try to obtain as many chips as possible from weaker contestants. It should be kept in mind that if you do not do this, someone else will.

* The philosophy is that a player that bluffs in the early stages of the tournament may actually be taking a greater risk than the possibility of profit from such a move. This should be taken into account.

* It is recommended to keep eyes focused on the end table – the idea is to stay around until then as the big money waits for the end. Although players can pick up cash prizes along the way, it should be noted that the large money is kept for the finalists. Players should also note that there is quite a difference in prize money between the player that finishes first and the one that finishes in third place. The tournament winner receives 50% of the pot, while the third placed finalist receives 20% of the same prize winnings.

* The important element of the game in the first part of an MTT is to gather chips, while remaining focused on the objective of staying in play for the later stages of the tournament.

* In the early stages of the MTT, blinds tend to be lower than the amount of chips and it is therefore recommended not to risk a great part of the stack. The only situation where this may be advisable is the event of a very high hand.

* Early in the MTT is the time to observe the actions and method of play of the other players at the table. This information may later be put to good use.

Caution and tight play are worth noting for the early stages of an MTT in order to ensure that a player will continue to the later more fruitful stages of the tournament. It is recommended to save more aggressive play for the end stages in the hope of reaching the final tournament table, where the big money lies.