Maximizing Your Returns from SNGs

Sngs can provide considerable profits in online poker if you apply the right strategy. The following article provides a guide on playing Sngs; specifically how to make the most and increase your profits.
1. Applying the Right Strategy
Needless to be said, the most important factor in making money from SNGs is to use the right strategy. SNG strategy varies considerably from cash table and MTT poker strategy, so learning the right play is fundamental maximizing your return.
2. What Rate of Return (ROI)?
You’ve probably heard the phrase ROI being knocked round poker forums and communities. This stands for Return on Investment, and refers to the average profit you make in SNGs overall. It’s calculated by the net profit divided by entry fees x 100 = percentage. Overall, you should aim for an average ROI of 20%+ in Sngs before even thinking about moving to the next level. An important element of ROI however is that it’s not a true indicator of how much money you make. A player with a 20% ROI in $50 SNGs will make more than a player with 50% ROI in $5 sngs – because of the bigger payoffs. Thus, you should strike a balance between a profitable ROI and entry level sng. For example, if you’re getting a 50% ROI (pretty unrealistic) at a lower level, you’d probably be much better off moving up to a higher stake.
3. Multi-Tabling
Multi-tabling enables you to earn more from sngs because you’re playing more games simultaneously. Playing two tables simultaneously will earn you twice as much profit from playing one table only. My advice is to take baby steps, adding one table on at a time. That being said, all the best players in the world learn to multi-table (up to 20 tables), and most conservative poker players should be able to handle at least 4 with some practice.
4. Take Advantage of Deposit Bonuses
Constantly taking advantage of new player deposit bonuses at rooms is a great way of making extra money. Deposit bonuses basically give you extra money in the balance for every sng you enter, so obviously you should be constantly looking out for them and taking advantage. Many poke rooms also operate on the same network as each other, so you’ll be able to play the exact same games with the same players with the added incentive of a deposit bonus giving you free cash. Playing at multiple rooms also allows you to experience different sngs and the competition at various rooms.
5. SNG Bankroll Management
SNG bankroll management suggests you hold a total bankroll to cover at least 30-50 buyins. The exact figure is flexible depending on your style of play. I suggest a bankroll of no less than 40xbuyins for new players. Also importantly, remember that if you have the mental and financial ability to play at a higher sng levels, you should take the opportunity. Under-optimising your bankroll means you’re not making as much as you could. Conversely, never play at a limit over your bankroll. The figure is set so high in order to cover variance and bad beats. Even if you neglect bankroll management, you’ll soon find yourself open to variance which will eat away at your bankroll.