Playing cash games is a lot different than a tournament. Even the average home game is different than a cash game, which usually resembles a sit and go structure. When it’s real money instead of chips, one should realize that more care needs to go into deciding to get into a hand. The game has more of a trapping mentality to it than a tournament, and players tend to chase draws less.

The best part about the cash game is the ability to leave the game whenever you want. You don’t get that option in any other structure, and if you’re up money you can take your winnings and go at any time. Remember to choose the cash game that’s right for your bankroll; you should have at least 200 times the big blind to play at a particular table in order to survive a bad run of cards.