I think I may have hit upon a revelation. For the first time I think that I am trying to learn something where the basic elements are actually very illusive. How do I mean?

Reading hands. I understand the principle. I can use Poker Stove (or at least one of its functions) but in the time I have to make a decision the best I can pin someone down on is something like 'probably a high pair or high suited connectors'. That specific. Sure, I am trying to use that knowledge, but it's a bit vague.

Equity. Again, I have a broad understanding of what this means, but I can only apply the principles broadly.

Back to reading hands. Best advice is if someone bets they hold something reasonable (unless they are bluffing). But in another thread I am advised to watch for calling stations who call even with strong hands. So, if I follow the advice, I never go up against someone who raises or calls! (I am doing well against peeps that fold at least! )

But none of it is that simple. Looking back over the very short period I have been playing, the concepts I know are all getting just a tiny bit clearer.

Some day I think I'll have it figured that the bloke calling me to the river is a holding station and make the decision to fold. And I'll be right. And then sometime after something else will happen to make me think that maybe I still don't understand that one!

So what to do.

Well I read an excellent article by the Dean today. The link is bookmarked on my laptop, so not today folks! But play, play and play some more. Over and over again (and keep reading and reviewing as I go) and slowly, ever so slowly I will get closer to 'getting it'.

But I will never 'get it'.