Whether you’re playing this game for profit or just something to help blow off steam after work, no one enjoys losing. If you want to up your game, then there are a few tips you might need to know about before you can excel from “rookie” to “competitor.” If you’re interested in moving up in the world of poker, then continue reading.
1. Familiarize Yourself With The Rules, Rankings, and Positions
There are many ins and outs of playing poker, many of which can catch you off-guard if you’re not an experienced player. However, the basic rules, rankings, and positions should never be one of them. The second the table finds out that you made a rookie mistake and might not be completely familiar with the basics, you’re going to be a lamb amongst lions. The experts behind beastsofpoker.com/ say that there are many courses you can take to learn everything you need to know before you sit down at a table. At the same time, most people are taught by either family or associates to properly play this game. Whatever manner you choose, it’s important to achieve a degree of familiarity with poker first.
If you’re planning on playing for money anytime soon, then make sure you’re well-versed in all the rules. There are variations, so if you know which type of poker you’ll be playing, then that will help you decide which set of rules to learn first and foremost. Make sure you never allow yourself to get roped into a game that you aren’t sure how to play. If people seem overzealous to play with you in a game whose rules you’re unaware of, then they’re probably just looking for someone to shark.
2. Keep The Stakes Low
If you rush into a high stakes game, then you’re going to lose a lot of money on learning very little. In a low-stakes game, you can relax and walk away with a more comprehensive understanding of the game. When you start low, you can gradually move up in the ranks without it costing you your bank account and dignity. Also, beginning low allows you to understand how your level is progressing. If you can play with advanced players for no money at all, then definitely take advantage of that as often as possible.
3. Imagine What The Other Player is Holding
In the game of poker, you have to think about your opponent just as much as you think of yourself. There’s little to no room for error, and you lower your risk of getting sniped if you try to imagine what your opponent is holding, what they’re thinking, and if they’re bluffing. This is where the idea of the “poker face” comes into play. You’ve got to make sure you keep your composure while also reading your opponents’ facial expressions.
4. Fold When You’re In Doubt
This is one of the hardest rules to follow as your skills progress and your confidence picks up. But never let your ego supersede your logical mind. If you’re unsure of whether you should raise, bet, or fold, then just go ahead and fold.
5. Be Aggressive
Play with a tight hand, but don’t be afraid to play aggressively either. If you play scared, you’re bound to get beat by anyone who’s not afraid to play high and take risks. Once you’ve been playing a while, play your strongest hands.
6. Only Play When You’re in a Positive Headspace
Just like in sports, emotions cloud your judgment and impede your ability. Don’t come to the table unless you’re focused on the game and prepared for setbacks. If you’re inebriated or in a bad headspace, your lack of sharpness will inevitably be exploited by your opponents.
7. Bluff Wisely
If you have a hand, then there’s no reason not to play. But if you question your hand, then it’s a good idea to fold. This will get more complicated when you begin to move up in the ranks, as the bets will be higher, and people will bluff all the time. The art of the bluff will slowly start to reveal itself as you practice more and more, especially if you’re able to play with high-ranking players. But just keep bluffing until you’ve figured it out.
The basics of poker come down to these main ideas, however, they’re in no way limited to just these. As you excel as a poker player, the need for growth will become more vital and necessary. Complimentary, the areas that require attention will shift and change depending on your level. Remember to always play smart and never play high-stakes games that are above your bankroll.