Bankroll
A bankroll is the total amount of money a player has set aside specifically for playing poker. Proper bankroll management is one of the most crucial skills for long-term success in poker, as it helps players weather variance and avoid going broke.
Key Points
- Separate from personal finances
- Must withstand normal variance
- Determines appropriate game selection
- Crucial for professional players
Recommended Bankroll Requirements
- Cash Games: 20-40 buy-ins for your regular stake
- Tournaments: 100+ buy-ins for MTTs
- Sit & Go's: 50+ buy-ins
- Higher for Professionals: Often 2-3x these amounts
Bankroll Management Rules
- Game Selection: Only play in games you're properly rolled for
- Moving Up: Wait until you have 1.5x the recommended bankroll
- Moving Down: Drop down if below recommended amount
- Shot Taking: Limited attempts at higher stakes with strict rules
Example Scenario
A player wants to play $1/$2 NL Hold'em cash games where the maximum buy-in is $200. Following the 20 buy-in rule for recreational players, they should have at least $4,000 dedicated to poker before playing these stakes. If they're a professional player, they might want $8,000-$12,000 to account for higher variance and living expenses.
Common Mistakes
- Playing Too High: Risking too much of bankroll per session
- No Separation: Mixing poker and personal funds
- Improper Tracking: Not monitoring wins and losses
- Emotional Decisions: Moving up stakes after big wins
A well-managed bankroll is the foundation of a successful poker career. It provides the financial cushion needed to play your best game without fear of going broke, and allows you to move up in stakes as your skills and bankroll grow. Remember: it's not just how much you win, but how well you protect and grow your bankroll that determines long-term success.