7 common mistakes poker players make when using HUD

Using HUD is one of the most basic aspects of players who treat their poker game seriously. A lot of players use the HUD almost automatically, without paying much attention to it. As a result, players make very serious mistakes that affect the quality of their decisions at the table and hinder their development as pro players in the long run. Let’s go through the most basic mistakes — make sure you don’t make them 😉

Mistake #1. To concentrate on HUD more than on the action

Poker is a game of incomplete information, and any data that we manage to get is valuable. HUD helps us a lot in this. But do not forget that HUD is just an additional tool. We can get the most basic information from the game dynamic itself. HUD and popups reflect general approximate statistics for various lines but do not forget that you play against a human.

Use your brain’s main resources to follow the line and think about your and your opponent’s ranges. Use HUD and popups to complete and correct this data. And not vice versa.

Mistake #2. Not paying attention to the sample size

Don’t forget that stats are highly susceptible to variance. Always look at the actual sample size the stat has. If the sample is not representative, it is better to ignore this stat and concentrate on the analysis of the current game spot.

Hand2Note has two useful features for stats appearance. First, sample size will be displayed for the stats while it’s 15 or less. In case sample size is less than 15, you’ll see it next to the stat value, and it should be a sign for you either to use the data cautiously or even ignore it.

Stats appearance settings in Hand2Note

Please note that you can customize the “reliable” sample size point and the opacity of unreliable stats.

Mistake #3. Relying solely on a stat value out of context

Another common mistake is when people start using one particular stat outside the context of the overall game line.

If a player bets 50% on the Flop and 50% on the Turn, his betting range is 25% of his original Preflop range. But if a player bets 20% on the Flop and 95% on the Turn, his betting range is 19% of his original Preflop range — which is more narrow and stronger.

Mistake #4. Not thinking about range composition

The actual opponent’s range lying behind the same stat value can be radically different. A 12% 3-bet can be linear or polarized. Always think about your opponent’s real range.

These things will help:

1. Always check stats in context.
2. Investigate your opponents preflop using MDA.
3. Create your own preflop strategy and train it.

Mistake #5. Not checking showdowns on stats

Real showdowns are the most valuable information in poker. They will allow you to better understand the composition of an opponent’s range, and can also provide solid insights into an opponent’s playing style even with a small sample.

Mistake #6. Not using bet sizing and hand strength tells

If there are such opportunities, it would be a mistake not to use them. A new era of HUDs has come with Hand2Note, so make sure you learn and incorporate these tools into your game and analysis.

Mistake #7. Not enhancing your HUD usage

Dedicate at least one hour of your study time each month to discuss HUD and popups usage with colleagues or a coach. Apply all the tips given in this article and you can significantly improve the efficiency of using HUD and popups.