This is the ultimate strategy when it comes to no-limit hold'em. In short, it's when every decision you make gives you the best long-term profits.

In many cases, yes it's about the math, but a perfect Game Optimal Theory will see people mixing it up in certain situations. You can see that most clearly in heads-up games, where just working on statistics doesn't always make you the victor.

This approach to poker lessens your exposure to losses. It gives you a clear path to see what makes the most logical sense in any given scenario. In short, it gives you a map.

The real enemy of Game Optimal Theory is human opponents. It's due to the fact that even when you change your strategy to account for theirs, they'll change their strategy right back.

It's a vicious cycle and you can't really overcome, especially when you're playing against more than one other person.

In a word, no. The sad truth is there is no perfect poker strategy. Well maybe there is. But the logistics of trying to memorize every single possible move based on every single possible move of your opponent are pretty well damn impossible to actually learn.

In short, it's a great way to learn the basic principles of poker. It also helps you figure out what certain moves in certain situations are a good idea.

It's a great basis for a strategy, especially against tough players. Which is why we think it's important to pay attention to it.

Yes there is. It's called exploitative poker. Basically, it encourages you to sometimes make a play that might not be backed up by statistics, therefore exposes you to potential losses. However, it lets you take advantage of your opponents weaknesses.

This comes into play when you're playing against someone who keeps on bluffing badly or even just tends to play mediocre cards. It's worth your while loosening your range as a result, even if the GTO would instruct you not to do it.