Tip #9 - Play aggressively from the big blind against a small blind raise

When everyone folds to the small blind, and they raise, you should defend your big blind quite frequently. This is because the small blind is likely to be raising with a wide range of hands, trying to steal your blind. Additionally, you will have position on the small blind for the rest of the hand, which is a significant advantage.

There are several reasons to play aggressively from the big blind in this situation:

• The small blind's raising range is typically quite wide, meaning they often won't have a strong hand
• You have position on all post-flop betting rounds
• You've already invested a full bet in the pot
• There are no other players to worry about - it's just heads-up between you and the small blind

When facing a small blind raise, you should consider three options:

• Reraising (3-betting) with your strong hands and some weaker hands as bluffs
• Calling with medium-strength hands that play well in position
• Folding your weakest hands that don't play well even with position

Your exact strategy should depend on your opponent's tendencies. Against a tight player who rarely raises from the small blind, you should be more cautious. However, against a player who frequently raises from the small blind, you should defend aggressively, including making some light reraises with hands like suited connectors or small pairs.

Remember that position is crucial in poker, and this is one of the few times when you're guaranteed to have position throughout the hand. Take advantage of this by playing more hands than you normally would, but always be ready to fold on the flop if you miss completely and face significant resistance.