3 Poker Strategy books and how to build on them in 2022

Poker Strategy books get a bad wrap in 2022. As our game develops, books, at least in theory, can become outdated, and the lessons and value we can garner decrease.

Here at Pokercode, we still think there is value in poker books in 2022. So today, we will take you through our top 3 Poker Strategy books and how to build on them in 2022!

Applications of No-limit Hold 'em - Matthew Janda

One of the most daunting moments in our journey as poker players happens when we realise our understanding of how to play a hand isn't definable if we don't know how we would play every other hand in our range.

This task would be impossible if we had to think about every other hand in our range. Still, by understanding theoretically sound Poker, we can quickly define balanced ranges using the proper bet-sizing whilst playing.

This book gives us the ability to create bet-sizings and ranges to beat better players. The theory in this book is not supposed to be complex or abstract; it's intended to be applied immediately, enabling us to see better overall results.

Many concepts are critical to a player's strategy despite few players implementing them or talking about them. Things like overbetting or donk betting should be able to not only be conceptually understood but should be critical tools in our arsenal. Applications of No-limit Hold 'em will ensure we know how to begin incorporating them into our game!

Modern Poker Theory - Michael Acevedo

Modern Poker Theory is simply put a guide to the essential aspects of No-Limit Hold 'em. It takes us through an in-depth exploration of what is meant by GTO Play (Game Theory Optimum) and how we can apply this at the tables.

Our ability to understand GTO is crucial in making the right decisions at the poker table whilst exploiting those not in the know. This book will provide the tools to build a foundation of our approach to GTO analysis. Organising ideas and concepts into an intuitive solution enables us to focus on the practical application of the theory.

Next time you are at a table, whether online or live, some players will have studied Modern Poker Theory. These players will have a better theoretical and practical understanding of No-Limit Hold 'em than those yet to read the book. Make sure you're one of those on the right side of knowledge!

The Mental Game of Poker - Jared Tendler

Something spoken about in Poker but still overlooked by so many is the mental side of the game. Poker is one of the few games in the world where even when playing perfectly, you can still lose pretty regularly.

Hundreds of poker players have turned to mental game coach Jared Tendler's revolutionary approach to help them play their best, no matter how badly they're running.

This book provides simple, step-by-step instructions and proven techniques to permanently fix problems such as tilt, handling variance, emotional control, confidence, fear, and motivation.

With games getting more challenging, our mindset has never been as vital as today, and this importance will only compound in years to come. The Mental Game of Poker will ensure we have our mindset under control to concentrate on our game at the highest level possible.

Special Mention - Let there be Range - Cole South

This one gets a special mention, as whilst the theory may not hold up today (I cannot confirm as I've not delved into it in quite some time), it changed the Poker Landscape Massively upon its release in 2008. Here's what Pokercode founder Fedor Holz had to say about it when discussing Poker Books.

"Personally, my biggest game changer back then was a book "Let there be Range" that was a pdf and really high level back then. Not sure it's that valuable today, but I remember having aha moments."

Final Thoughts on Poker Strategy Books in 2022

There are other books we could recommend reading, whilst some books don't and won't stand the test of time from a theoretical standpoint. The ones we have listed will provide a solid foundation from a mindset and approach perspective.

We think in 2022, whilst these strategy books will provide that foundation, constant work on our game is needed if we want to compete.

We, of course, recommend the Pokercode Community, where you can take these foundations and build on them through our interactive learning and discussions—elevating your game to the highest level possible in 2022 and beyond!

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