The stage 3 part of the sit n go (SNG) tournament brings players closer to the money. More aggressive play will often help to bring players to the SNG final table.

Money in the final stages of the SNG …

In the final stages of an SNG poker tournament, players usually begin to feel closer to the money. It should probably be noted that once a player has reached the SNG end table, the final position does become more important. If up until now, it was important for players to increase their stack size, at this stage, the difference between each of the finalists' winning positions becomes more significant. Players are generally aware that there can be a large difference in the prize money earned by a player that finishes in second place and the one that finishes in third place of an SNG. The player completing the tournament in first place receives the largest portion of the prize money at 50%. The player finishing in second place wins 30% and the one concluding in third place wins 20% of the prize.

SNG stage 3 strategy …

Upon reaching stage 3 of the SNG poker tournament, strategy now changes. If up until now the policy was to keep gaining chips to stay in the game at the later stages, then now the aim turns into trying to win the SNG tournament. Stage 1 usually involves rather careful play while observing the other players. In stage 2, SNG game play tends to become looser. Stage 3 usually brings about more aggressive play. As the end of the tournament becomes closer and players have been observing each other's actions during the game, many players choose to be more assertive in their style of play.

Following the bubble stage of the SNG, the players that are still around to play will all have money to play with. At this stage, play usually becomes more aggressive. It is very important for a player to continue to increase the stack size.

Big stack …

It is recommended that players that have a large stack in the end stage try to pressurize those players with a lower stack amount. This is the time to raise the bets. As mentioned earlier, aggressive play finds its way to the end table.

Low stack …

For a player who has a short stack of chips at this stage, it is wise to look for the opportunity to double up. At this point it may also be advantageous to be prepared to push all in with any reasonable hand.

Points to note in stage 3 of the SNG …

* Although aggression at this stage may appear to be the name of the game, players who become less confident in a hand, following an opponent's raise after a raise, should not be reluctant or afraid of folding.

* It is recommended to go for as many chips as possible at this stage of the SNG.

* This stage of the game usually involves the better players that are aiming for the big money.