Playing pots out of position is one thing that will lead to being an unprofitable poker player. Three bets out of position especially will get one stuck in a hand and is simply not profitable. For instance at higher stakes playing cutoff raising hands and 3 betting will kill one’s bankroll if not done correctly. Obviously 3 betting pre flop with hands such as AK and Queens or better is the best strategy in turning a profit but certain situations call for different plays.
3-Betting Against Aggressive Opponents
If facing an aggressive player the better play would be to be patient and trap your opponent into taking down a big pot. A steal from the button or re steal with weaker hands will only work against weaker or more passive players. But facing an aggressive player and 3 betting with a hand such as A10 or AJ can get you stuck and lose a big pot if the player actually wakes up with a big hand. One thing I’ve seen from playing is to switch or change gears relating to the table you are at. If it is a super aggressive table or has many aggressive players then be patient and wait for a hand to take down a big pot.
3-Betting Against Tight or Passive Opponents
If it is a tight or passive table 3 bet more often pre-flop whether out of position or in position; in position preferably, and continuation bet after the flop to increase your ROI. Many players at low stakes such as .25/.50 or .50/1 will just look at their hands so this will increase your fold equity by playing more cutoff hands and making continuation bets. But at higher stakes such as 5/10 online it becomes more difficult to take down pots as other players will consistently 3 bet one if they feel that they are raising too many hands. Thus playing hands in position and re raising pre-flop in position will ultimately return the most money to you and allow you to have consistently profitable sessions. Just adjust to the tables you are playing at and 3 betting pre flop will become easy to pick good spots and win more hands and increase profitability.