Well, as many of you have probably noted from various exploratory posts, I've been trying to improve my game and the result for October was the usual: a very mediocre month. I was still up (which is actually better than the usual result I have when doctoring around), but too many bad experimental plays.

I do think, though, that I've at least figured out what I want to try in November (may have to back off pending results): Make a LOT more river bets. The idea here is to bet every time I'm reasonably certain I'm ahead (even if I have just TP) and to provoke a fold whenever I'm behind but think they're too weak to be able to call. At least at my current level of play, I think that's ambitious but perhaps doable, and I think it's at least a solid intro to learning to play one's opponent's hand.

(It's probably going to be a tough month, but maybe I'll surprize myself--I feel like I need to do this).

Any words of advice??

Aisthesis...why dont you start a journal and post all of these type posts. You are one of the most cerebral ( big word for the day) players I know and I think a journal would be a good place to collect all of these thoughts.

We're making a concerted effort to keep posts organized where they should be and I dont want to be seen playing favorites with you (since youre one of my oldest internet friends and favorite posters).

Side note: Trodgers and I are going to Winstar tonight. It will be 1st live action since last time I went there.

I think Im going up to Winstar as well tonight. Playin some 2/5 NL.

And for betting the river more; that is a good idea. Value bets on the river are important for improving your winnings. If you bet 1/3 of the pot, then everytime you have a winner you are winning 33% more!

Just be leary of check-raisers when you have postition and a dagerous card hits. If players realize you always value bet on the end they will make this play against you.

Side Note: on Weds. at Noon Winstar has a $50 NL freeze-out tourney. So there is lots of ring game action afterwards.

i have the exact same problem aisthesis, as i'm sure many other players do. i'd be interested in reading how this project works out for you.

in fact, i think i'll join you (minus the posting). i've known for months that that was one of my major leaks. i think that's what i'll work on this month.

hopefully i'll get some fun hands to post on here about it