Poker Tips

Never Stay in a Hand Just Because You're Already In It

Another widespread mistake beginners make is to think that "Well, I've already put that much in the pot, I have to stay in here now." Nope. You cannot win a pot just by throwing money at it. There may be some cases when pot odds warrant a call, save for if you're sure you're beaten, and there's no way your hand can improve to be the best hand, you should fold right away. The money you have already put in the pot isn't yours anymore, and you can't get it back just by playing a hand all the way to the end.

Do not play when mad, sad, or in a generally bad mood

When you play poker, you shouldn't do it to flee from being depressed or having a really bad day. You start out on tilt -- playing emotionally, not rationally -- and you won't play your best. Similarly, if during a poker game, you lose a big hand or get sucked out on and feel yourself going on tilt, stand up & take a break until you feel composed lateryou’re your fellow players will sense your mood and take advantage of it.

Don't Call at the End of a Hand to "Keep Someone Honest"

Its quite an important tip. We often see a lot of players look at another player's final bet, look at the hand, & say "I know you've got me, but I have to keep you honest," as they throw in a final call. It may really be worth it to see if a player really has the hand if you're not sure & you are gaining information that will help you later on, but if you really think a player has the hand he's representing & you're beat, why give him another pile of your money? Those bets would add up over an evening. .