Structure

Basic Definition

In a tournament, the structure refers to the pace at which blinds and antes increase, as well as other rules related to the progression of the game. It determines how the blinds will rise over time or through rounds.

Specific Situation

• At the start of the tournament, the blinds are set at 100/200, and the structure increases to the next level every 15 minutes. The next blinds might be set at 100/300 or 200/400, for example.
• In cash games, the blinds are fixed and the structure doesn't change, allowing you to play at a rate that suits you.

Important Information

• When the tournament structure causes the blinds to increase rapidly, your stack becomes small relative to the number of big blinds, so you need to develop a strategy accordingly.
• If you don't understand the structure, you might not be able to formulate an appropriate strategy. In particular, be cautious because if your chips decrease too much, you may find yourself in a situation where you have no choice but to go all-in automatically.

Examples of Term Usage

"The structure of this tournament has blinds that increase quickly, so you should play aggressively from the start."