Sit & Go (SNG) tournaments are a battle of patience, position, and precision—especially when the blinds escalate quickly. In these fast-paced structures, mastering push/fold strategy is essential to stay competitive, protect your stack, and maximize your profits. Many players lose equity simply because they hesitate or guess in critical short-stacked spots.
This guide will help you understand how push/fold charts work, when to use them, and how to make quick, profitable decisions under pressure.
What Is a Push/Fold Chart?
A push/fold chart is a precomputed table that tells Master Poker Vietnam you the most profitable decision when you’re short-stacked—usually 15 big blinds (BB) or less. Based on your position, stack size, and hand strength, the chart recommends either:
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Push (all-in)
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Fold
These charts are designed using advanced game theory and ICM models, and they allow players to remove guesswork in late-stage SNG decisions.
Why Push/Fold Charts Matter in SNGs
Unlike large MTTs, SNGs often come down to shallow stack play with few players left and high-pressure ICM spots. Push/fold mastery provides:
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Higher win rates in bubble and heads-up situations
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Minimized mistakes from overthinking marginal hands
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Confidence in aggressive, well-timed shoves
In SNGs, the blinds rise fast. You won’t have time for complex post-flop play, making correct preflop decisions critical.
How to Read and Use a Push/Fold Chart
Push/fold charts usually have:
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Your stack size in BB on one axis
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Hand combinations listed per position (UTG, CO, BTN, SB)
Example:
If you’re on the button with 8BB, the chart might recommend pushing with:
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All pairs (22+)
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All suited aces (A2s+)
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Broadways like KJ, QJ
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Suited connectors down to 76s
To use the chart effectively:
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Know your exact stack size
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Know your position
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Scan the chart quickly for push range
Print it, memorize it, or use legal real-time tools if allowed.
Common Mistakes When Using Push/Fold Strategy
Even players who use charts can make mistakes. Avoid these common errors:
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Pushing too wide against tight callers or big stacks
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Folding too tight out of fear during the bubble
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Ignoring opponent tendencies—chart is a baseline, not a rule
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Not adjusting for ICM in payout-heavy spots
Charts provide the foundation, but in high-stakes spots (like 3-handed or final 4), ICM adjustments are critical.
Adjusting Push/Fold Ranges Based on Opponents
Great players refine their push/fold decisions by observing:
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Who’s calling too loose? Tighten your range slightly.
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Who’s folding too much? Widen your shove range.
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Stack sizes behind you—avoid pushing into bigger stacks if you’re short.
Situational awareness helps you go beyond charts and into true decision-making mastery.