In this article, Poker Tracker Director Steve McLoughlin explains the real value of poker hand statistics software (Poker Tracker, Hold'em Manager), and why HUDs (heads-up displays) are often overrated.
Steve talked to some of the most famous online poker players in the world, and they insisted that the HUD was what gave them the edge in the game. After a long conversation, these players finally understood that the edge doesn't come from the HUD. The edge comes from the fact that they are actually superior players.
Obviously, using a HUD in conjunction with a database will give you more information, but using a HUD will not instantly turn you into a winning player.
The real power of this software is how easy it is to review your game, identify your weaknesses and strengths, and combine this knowledge with what your HUD can tell you about your opponents.
The HUD is very overrated according to Steve, it is not as important as reviewing your game after finishing a session.
In fact, basing your game solely on the HUD can lead to several mistakes.
Ranges are an example of how HUDs can lead to error
Steve McLoughlin, along with Mason Malmuth, owner of the 2+2 forum, looked at some scenarios where the data seen on the HUD could lead to error.
By analyzing different ranges, they were able to see how these are misunderstood by players.
In a range viewer, a filter was made for 3-BETs. The 3-BET percentage was 9.6%, so what is the 3-BET range?
Many players will think that the range is 9.6%, but in reality this range is much wider.
Upon analysis, they arrived at a range of 43%, putting all possible hands in the range.
Another problem with data is that many players end up deviating from their usual play styles for a variety of reasons.
You may be playing against someone who is drunk or tilted, and this will cause the data to be inaccurate and unrealistic.
The data doesn’t tell the full story, and that’s where the danger lies.
The best players work hard
Steve doesn't really buy the idea that using a HUD is a shortcut to becoming a winning poker player. To prove his point, he takes a look at the opinions of several of the best players in the world to tell you what it really takes to be good.
“Think of the HUD as an encyclopedia. Just because you have it doesn’t mean you’re any smarter.”
“When using software like Poker Tracker or Hold'em Manager, review your game after you finish your session, that's what great players do.”
“After finishing the game, such players create reports, filters, and learn more about their own game than about their opponents’ game. They really do their homework.”
“It’s the same thing as going to college. Going to college doesn’t really mean you’re going to be smart. It takes time and dedication. The same goes for poker.”
Article translated and adapted from: Why Poker HUDs are Overvalued by Poker Players
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