[TStoneMBD]

i recommend that you look at your cards immediately in between players looking at their cards. it will probably be a strategic benefit for you. i like to watch my opponents as they look at their cards and viewing my cards before the action gets to me usually does not disable me from ever doing so.

by viewing your cards before the action gets to you, you know exactly what youre looking for in your opponents. if for instance you look down at AQ and see a player raise it in, you will know what to look for to get an idea of his hand range and will likely already have made up your decision before the action gets to you in many situations. this prevents you from giving away valuable information by the time the action gets to you in taking a long time to make your decision.

of course, if the money is very important to you late in a tournament and taking your time increases your edge then by all means take your time. but if youre playing in a tournament all day, wasting time isnt fair to other players. I was watching AJo Go Allin (Alex Jacobs) play the final table at Foxwoods and I had to leave early because he was taking FOREVER on every hand and couldnt stand watching it anymore. i dont fault him for doing so because the money was so substantial but its better if you can avoid that.