How I finally became a profitable poker player

[Percy]

For over a decade, I played poker like a complete degenerate—loose, undisciplined, and ultimately unprofitable. The reality is, talent alone isn’t enough. It took meeting a truly profitable professional player to finally clean up my game and turn things around.

Here’s what changed my approach, and why it worked. Mind you, this applies to 1/3 and some 2/5 play, where the average opponent isn't exactly elite.

1. Tighten Up Your Preflop Play​

If you want to win, stop playing garbage hands. Most losing players convince themselves that KQo or A10s are strong hands, and then wonder why they keep getting into marginal spots. Unless you’re in late position, fold these hands. This isn't up for debate.

2. Bet Correctly​

When you raise preflop, make it 4x the big blind + 1BB for each limper. If you’re facing a 3-bet, go at least 3.5x their raise, and if you can get away with 4-5x, do it.
Many 1/3 players are gamblers—they’ll call a big bet with weak hands just to try and "outplay" the tight player. Take advantage of this.

3. Set-Mining​

With JJ and lower, play for set value only. If you can call for 10x the bet, do it. Otherwise, fold. If there are multiple players in the pot, include their stack sizes in the calculation. If you’re playing pocket pairs wrong, you’re leaking money.

4. Post-Flop Play​

Your default should be betting at least 50% of the pot. Adjust as needed, but don’t check just because you’re unsure. If you hesitate too much, you’re playing too cautiously.

5. Stop Calling Hero Bluffs​

If you've played long enough, you already know when your opponent has it. Yet most players still call, just to "confirm" their suspicion. Stop proving yourself right—just fold. The guy who says, “I knew you had it!” but called anyway? That was me for years. That’s why I lost.

6. Bad Table? Leave.​

If your table is tight and full of thinking players, switch tables. Don’t stay just because you don’t want to be seen leaving. You’re there to make money, not impress strangers.

Results?​

I played 20 sessions last year at 1/3, and with this approach, I averaged $70/hr. 2/5 is harder (stronger players), and my win rate is lower there, but I’m still refining my game.

Key Takeaways:​

• Discipline is everything. You might not play a hand for 30-45 minutes. Accept it.
• Being tight attracts aggression. Other players hate nits and will try to take you down. Use it to your advantage.
• Observing before playing = free information. While you wait, watch everything—how they bet, how they react. They won’t know your style yet, but you’ll know theirs.

This method isn’t flashy, but it works. Let me know if you have any questions.