For players wishing for success in a Sit N Go (SNG) poker tournament, it may be important to note that these tournaments have separate stages. SNG's do have a beginning, middle and end.

SNG Introduction

An important part of SNG strategy is by understanding that there are different parts to the game and that a different type of strategy may be recommended at different stages of the SNG tournament. From the start of the SNG, a player aiming for success needs to concentrate efforts and keep the end stage in sight. For a player who wishes to make it to the end stage, it is recommended to try to collect as many chips as possible in the early stages.

SNG middle stage basics …

In the second stage of an SNG tournament, it is advisable to carry on in the pursuit of collecting chips. In most cases, by this stage, the bad players will have already left the table. The main objective is to gather as many chips as possible in order to remain in the final stages of the tournament. It should perhaps be noted at this point that there is a difference in the prize winnings between the earnings of a player that decides to cash in at one of the levels along the way and between the winnings of a player who reaches the final stage and manages to complete in one of the top positions. Play therefore in stage 2 of an SNG tends to become looser as players attack in an attempt to obtain more chips.

Points worth noting regarding SNG stage 2 …

* It is worthwhile paying particular attention to the size of stacks at this second stage of the tournament. It may be beneficial to attack stacks of a medium size level.
* This is the time to use knowledge regarding other players in the tournament, gleaned from the early stages.
* As the blinds increase, a player needs to decide where to make use of more aggressive play.
* Slightly more aggressive play is recommended against passive contestants.
* It is worth noting that elements of bluffing will be present in this stage of the SNG.
* Trying to steal from the tight players is now recommended.
* It is recommended to be patient and play with the good hands – waiting while searching for the right opportunity is advisable.
* It may be worthwhile trying to steal chips from tight players while attempting to trap aggressive players.

The middle blinds level is in some senses a difficult level to play. If a player begins by raising at a middle blind level with a mediocre hand and then gets called, the risk and investment then increases. In a situation where an opponent continues to call and the player then folds, the money has been forfeited and wasted. Experts would therefore recommend against raising on hands such as pocket pairs.

In conclusion, in stage 2 of the SNG, it is advisable to engage in looser play and to maintain thoughts in one's mind of reaching the final table.