Poker Math - What they don't get

[Windbreaker]

I wouldn't say I'm an expert with ICM. ICM stands for independent chip model. In a cash game, every chip is worth face value. In a tournament, this is not the same.

What the ICM does is factors in the prize distribution in comparison to your relative chip stack versus the other players still in the tournament.

This provides you with your current equity in a tournament.

Knowing your current equity in the tournament, your hole cards, and estimating your opponents calling range....you can find small edges by learning proper pushing/folding strategy in later stages of a tournament. This also works if you are the caller instead of the person shoving.

Having said all that, I have never used an icm calculator before in my life. When you are playing, you generally just need to estimate your general hand value vs your opponent(s).

In general, weak players either open shove or fold too much or too little. And also don't call often enough (especially from the blinds and late position).