Single Table Tournament SNG Push-Fold Charts Guide

1. What Are Push-Fold Charts?

Push-Fold Charts are mathematical charts used in tournament poker, typically from early to middle stages, when the stack depth is shallow (usually less than 15 BB). They guide players in making preflop decisions to either push all-in or fold. The charts are based on game theory optimal (GTO) or near-optimal solutions, calculating the expected value (EV) of specific positions, stack depths, and hands to suggest actions. Push-fold charts are widely used in the late stages of single-table tournaments (SNG) and multi-table tournaments (MTT), serving as a fundamental tool for improving profitability.

2. The Principles of Push-Fold Charts

The core premise of push-fold charts is that when the stack size is sufficiently small relative to blinds and antes, postflop play becomes extremely limited, making push or fold the optimal strategy. Their derivation relies on the following assumptions:

• Opponents are rational and balanced players who will call or fold with optimal ranges.
• Postflop skill advantages are not considered, as shallow stacks leave little room for postflop maneuvering.
• Chip value is linear, ignoring the Independent Chip Model (ICM) effect (but adjustments are needed near the money bubble).

A typical push-fold chart lists all-in ranges by position (e.g., UTG, MP, CO, BTN, SB) and stack depth (e.g., 10 BB, 8 BB, 5 BB). For example, in a 9-handed game with blinds 100/200 and an ante of 25, if the CO position has 10 BB (2000 chips), the chart might suggest pushing all pairs, all Ax hands, Kx suited, Qx suited, and some connectors.

3. Practical Example

Assume a standard 9-player SNG with blinds 100/200 and ante 25. You are in the CO with 2000 chips (10 BB) and hold K♠9♦. According to a typical push-fold chart (e.g., from two-time WPT champion Andrew Brokos or SNG Wizard), the recommended push range for CO at 10 BB includes: 22+, A2s+, A9o+, K8s+, KTo+, Q9s+, J9s+, T8s+, 98s. K9o is not in the recommended range, so you should fold.

If you hold A7o, it falls within the recommended range, so you should push. Assume BTN and SB fold, BB calls. You need to calculate pot odds. For example, if BB's calling range is {22+, A8s+, ATo+, KJs+}, your A7o has about 30% equity, and the pot odds require approximately 35% equity to break even. Therefore, pushing has positive expected value.

4. Common Mistakes

1. Blindly following without adjusting for opponents: Push-fold charts assume opponents call with GTO ranges, but actual opponents may be too loose or too tight. If opponents call too loose (e.g., many Ax hands), you should tighten your push range; if they are too tight, you can widen it.

2. Ignoring ICM factors: Near the money bubble or final table, nonlinear chip values alter optimal strategy. For example, on the bubble, a short stack should avoid battling an average stack because busting out has a huge cost. In such cases, the chart's recommendations need revision, typically toward more conservative play.

3. Incorrectly calling instead of folding: Some players tend to call with medium hands (e.g., KJo at 10 BB), but calling can lead to awkward postflop situations, whereas pushing applies pressure. Push-fold charts emphasize push or fold; calling is usually negative EV.

5. Summary

Push-fold charts are an essential basic tool for SNG players, but they are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Beginners should first memorize the push ranges from charts and gradually understand the underlying mathematical principles. Advanced players need to dynamically adjust based on opponent tendencies, ICM, and tournament stage. The ultimate goal is to internalize the charts, develop intuition, and make correct decisions in critical moments.