The 80/20 Rule in Poker: Work Smarter, Not Harder

The Pareto Principle states that 80% of results come from 20% of efforts. In poker, this principle applies everywhere—and understanding it can transform your game.

The Pareto Principle

Named after economist Vilfredo Pareto, the 80/20 rule observes that outcomes are rarely evenly distributed. In business, 80% of revenue often comes from 20% of customers. In poker, similar patterns emerge.

80/20 in Hand Selection

Roughly 80% of your profit comes from 20% of your hands. Those premium holdings—pocket pairs, big aces, suited connectors in position—generate most of your winnings.

The implication? You don't need to play every hand. In fact, playing too many hands is the #1 leak for recreational players. Tighten up, wait for the good spots, and maximize value when you have it.

Where Your Profit Comes From

80% of your profit comes from 20% of your opponents. At any table, there are usually 1-2 players making significant mistakes. Your job is to identify them and get in pots with them.

This is why game selection matters more than technical skill at low stakes. Finding a table with weak players is more valuable than perfecting your 3-bet range.

Applying the Rule

• Focus on big pots: Small pots don't matter much. Concentrate on playing big pots well.
• Target weak players: Identify the fish and play more hands against them.
• Study efficiently: Focus on the 20% of concepts that matter most (position, hand selection, pot odds).
• Manage your time: 80% of your improvement comes from 20% of your study time. Quality over quantity.