The actual quality of starting hands matters less in heads-up poker than in a full-handed game, because the quantity of wins and the pace often take priority.

But, still, there are often long runs where one player will average superior cards relative to an opponent. And that's a great advantage that seldom can be overcome.

So, yes, you'll make considerably more money with strong cards. Powerful hands give you the ability to bet and raise with confidence, rather than just dance. And they mean you hold actually winning tickets the majority of the time, which also makes you invincible in the short term.

I don't claim big hands don't matter in heads-up play. They do, but not as much.

Straight Flushes,

Mike Caro

Nobody's ever flattered me in those terms before. Nice touch.

Much appreciated.

Straight Flushes,

Mike Caro

Thanks for including the references and links in your online book.

I kind of like the idea of giving Diane a page to list all the offenses. Brilliant! I'm not going to actually do it, but I probably should take your idea and run with it. 

Straight Flushes,

Mike Caro

Thanks for leaving your first comment and joining our Poker1 family.

You wrote (in part): "Mike, you make such a point about not caring, that it seems you must care. To plagarize the Bard, "Methinks thee doth protest too much…"

I notice that my last paragraph in the entry above was:

"Sometimes it makes me angry, thinking about all those things I don’t care about. But at least it helps me realize how little they matter to me."

I like your view of the world, too.

Straight Flushes,

Mike Caro