When a poker tournament is getting close to the money there are some strategies to keep in mind. Most players have the mindset that they are going to wait for the money before getting serious in a hand. Aggressive players will take the opportunity to steal blinds and pots because players are temporarily playing scared. Making larger-than-average bets pre-flop will be a high percentage move, especially against players that you’ve profiled as tight.

On the occasion that someone does call your bet, it’s important to notice their stack size as compared to yours. If they have less than you, you can force the action and perhaps force them out of the hand. If they have more chips than you, your entire tournament is on the line and you don’t want to get knocked out on the bubble. And remember to get back to regular play once you money.