How to Not Be Obnoxious at the Poker Table

Poker is as much a game of etiquette as it is of skill. Yes, you need to know the table rules, but you also need to know the unwritten ones. Even if it is a friendly game with friends, the best way to ensure the next invitation is to avoid bad behavior. And when big money is at stake – or even big pride – remembering your manners can help you walk away (not limp) with a large stack.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Before you hit the table, study the rules. Asking whether a pair beats a flush will not keep the game moving.

2. Keep up with antes and blinds. The action at the table is the most important thing at all times, not your cell phone ringing or the television or your pizza. If you must constantly be reminded to bet, you probably won't be invited back.

3. No one wants to hear about your "bad beat." The biggest mistake of obnoxious players is constantly whining about being beaten. Everyone gets beat. Everyone has had a near-perfect hand only to lose on the last card.

4. If you lose, lose gracefully. No screaming. No whining about bad cards. Learn to win gracefully, too. There's no need to preen and boast, because the odds say you'll lose the next time. You just took someone's money; they might be touchy about the subject.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember, as chip stacks start to dwindle, tempers are more likely to flair.