Is a high IQ necessary to be a poker pro

[restrikt]

I guess it's only fitting that people with higher IQs need more challenging tasks to stay interested.

[spsurfin_Michael]

Measuring intelligence is not just a simple or singular function. There are multiple forms of intelligence and individuals’ score differently. One may score high on IQ but low of EQ (Emotional IQ), or vice versa.

EQ may be regarded as a better predictor of overall poker skills. Playing ABC poker is easy, and the math is not difficult. Reading, studying, gaining experience, can be achieved by average IQ. The speed at which the information is integrated and generalized into situational poker comes with a higher IQ. Everything else that encompasses the poker skill set is based on EQ.

To be specific, an IQ typically tests for Classification skills, Spatial skills, Logical reasoning, Pattern Recognition, General knowledge. Again, each individual is unique and may score off the chart in one or more skill sets, and well below on others.

An EQ test typically identifies competencies in Self awareness, Mood management, Self motivation, Empathy, and Managing relationships. EQ is a much better predictor of success than IQ.

[suzzer99]

I find it more than a little ironic that this thread is in the WPT forum.

[integrate]

I'm sure a higher IQ certainly helps, but I believe discpline is more important than anything.

Some of the top players, as most people know, came from or were going to top colleges. Howard Lederer - Columbia. Chip Reese was on his way to Harvard law from Dartmouth. Phil Gordon - Stanford. Andy Block - MIT and Harvard. Jesus Ferguson - UCLA, PhD. Phil Laak was either a former engineer or engineer major. Paul Phillips - UCSD (not the best school, but his deductive logic skills are incredible).

These are simply interesting examples to be taken with a grain of salt.

[MicroBob]

[ QUOTE ]
I find it more than a little ironic that this thread is in the WPT forum.

[/ QUOTE ]


I laughed.
Well played.

[NYWalker]

higher education helps to understand the theory, but this is still a game inside the casino. 50% luck, %30 guts and 20% intelligence.

PS. I have MS and BS in computer science and work at major Wall street firm managing a computer system that handles $12 billion transations each month.

[MicroBob]

[ QUOTE ]
50% luck

[/ QUOTE ]


incorrect.
thanks for trying.

[pokerjedi]

interesting information on the colleges. i'm on my way to becoming great...working on my masters.

discipline is also an issue. but i do find that some of the greats were just unbelievable in their education.

[greatwhite]

[ QUOTE ]
I'm sure a higher IQ certainly helps, but I believe discpline is more important than anything.

Some of the top players, as most people know, came from or were going to top colleges. Howard Lederer - Columbia. Chip Reese was on his way to Harvard law from Dartmouth. Phil Gordon - Stanford. Andy Block - MIT and Harvard. Jesus Ferguson - UCLA, PhD. Phil Laak was either a former engineer or engineer major. Paul Phillips - UCSD (not the best school, but his deductive logic skills are incredible).

These are simply interesting examples to be taken with a grain of salt.

[/ QUOTE ]
Some have and some haven't. I know Daniel Negreanu dropped out of high school and he seems to be very intelligent. I have not heard anything about Ivey or Matusow going to college. School may help a little, but experience is key.

[Vincent]

Not reading thread, but to answer "Is a high IQ necessary to be a poker pro", I know the answer is no from people who have an IQ of 100 (115 at best) and making their living playing poker. They probably make $50k, and they work as hard putting in hours as anyone I know. Obviously low low limits.