Short-handed: When there are six or less players at the table.
When playing short-handed poker the dynamics of the game change compared to a full game. Normally, kickers are not as important compared to a full table. Playing hands like A9 off-suit is normal. Since there are less player, the chances of an ace on the board, an ace in your hand and an add’l ace in your opponent’s hand is not likely.
When I play short-handed I become more aggressive, I loosen-up my range of hands and play my position rather than my cards. I pick and choose battles based on the players at the table. I still fold hands like 69 off-suit but I will raise with 10 9 off-suit in late position. Small and mid-pocket pairs become more valuable. Continuation bets work better when you play short-handed because you normally go to the flop with one player and most likely they will miss the flop. Remember; position, position, position.
A short-handed game is very difficult to master, but once you get a good hang of it, you wouldn't want to play anything else. There are lots of sharks at short-handed high limit games, so start-off playing small and work your way up to higher games.
Play Hard, Play Smart and Good Luck
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