What most players get wrong about solvers

This fundamental mindset shift from Dara O'Kearney will get you thinking about solvers in the right way.

One of the reasons why some players struggle with solver technology is because they fundamentally misunderstand what a solver is.

They treat solvers like a database when they are in fact more like a microscope.

The wrong way to use solvers is to look up a spot to see if you were 'right' or what you 'should' have done.

You'll never learn anything useful with this approach unless the exact same spot repeats itself, which it never really will in tournaments.

The right way to use solvers is to follow your curiosity.

When it takes a strange line, ask why did the solver do that?

What is the overall strategy for your range, not just your hand?

Have a playful attitude

Don't just stay on the same node, go backwards and forwards to look for outlier strategies.

When you think you have had a learning breakthrough, test it in other situations to see if it holds true.

When you are very confident about something, test your assumptions to see if you can find an exception to the rule.

My main advice when trying out software like GTO Wizard is to have a playful attitude.

Study will seem less like work and might start being almost as enjoyable as playing.

You can get Dara's free book on effective poker study by joining his mailing list.