If accumulating National Player Ranking Points were the only measure of a player’s ability, then those who play in the most events could rack up the most points. Does this mean that the one with the most points is necessarily the best poker player? USPT doesn’t think so. The PSI (power Strength Index) was created to help determine who the best player is. It establishes a player ranking system based on a player’s ability. By comparing players’ tournament performances using a proprietary formula developed by USPT, every member player will be given a PSI rating after participating in their first 10 tournaments.

The PSI is a dynamic number that lives and breathes. Much like a golfer's handicap it changes with every event in which a player participates. Depending on a player’s performance, their PSI can go up or down. A series of fantastic performances will move a player’s PSI up quickly, while a string of disastrous showings will cause a PSI to plummet. Most players will fall into a category between these two extremes, gradually moving their PSI score reflecting their varying finishes in events. Players can work to improve their PSI through stronger play and better finishes, even when winning an event is not “in the cards”.