Playing a Small Stack in Tournaments

Tournaments are generally simpler to play well than cash games. It is very rare to go through an entire tournament without being “short stacked” on at least one occasion. Being “short stacked” is having a small chip total compared to the size of the blinds. We can typically consider having between 10 and 20 big blinds somewhat short stacked, and less than 10 big blinds short stacked.

Although being short stacked is obviously a disadvantage, there is a silver lining. Correct strategy becomes significantly simpler. This is because we no longer have the bet-sizing options we have when we’re “deep stacked.” Taking away the option of having to choose the size of our bet reduces our choices and makes us more likely to act profitably. If you’re short stacked you should always be 1 or 2 bets away from going all-in, and once entering a pot you should rarely fold.

Your stack is basically your army for a war. When you’re already overmatched you really have to use your whole arsenal. You can’t afford small skirmishes, as they will eventually wear you down. Using the full force of your stack means going all-in. Even a small stack, when used all at once can intimidate another player, or at least make them hesitate before playing a pot with you. When you have a short stack you can’t be afraid to lose. More often then not you’ll find yourself out, even if you play perfectly. But making the most out of these long-shot opportunities can make a huge difference in the long run. Just make sure you stay away from mistakes like betting half of your stack and then folding. Instead, either go all-in or wait for a better opportunity. All you’re doing with the half-sized bet is dividing an already reduced army.