In the early rounds of big tournaments, the blind structure is usually small enough that you can play a bit more reckless than you normally would. Not only will this keep your opponents on their toes, it is good strategy for setting up later play, especially if you will be at the same table for a while. First round action is generally not representative of how the final table will look; in other words, the chip leader at the end of round one seldom makes the cut for the final table.

Why is it correct to play more loosely in the first round? For starters, the risk is smaller. If you lose a few small hands, it won’t affect you too much for later play. It is much better to risk your chips when they are more plentiful and less meaningful. Also, it is much easier to come back from a deficit should you lose chips in the first round. By playing more loosely here, you stand to have more to gain than you do to lose.

The second reason is advertising. If your table stays together for a while, the others at the table will remember your reckless play and many will have a lasting impression of this. For you, this means more callers and re-raisers in later rounds when you have monster hands. By risking a little bit early in the tournament, you stand the chance of winning a whole lot more in the latter rounds.