-
Step 1
Learn the specific game of poker. Understand how to deal the cards, remember the rules and always watch the table. Some new players jump into the game without fully understanding a specific poker game. Various games have completely different rules, such as Texas Hold'em vs. seven-card stud.
-
Step 2
Memorize the basic odds and outs probability (see Resources section below). The odds of a hand are the cards you are dealt. For example, the odds of obtaining A-K suited for a starting hand are 331 to 1. The outs of a hand are the number of cards you can obtain to win. For instance, if the starting hand is A-K Hearts and the flop is 2 (hearts), 9 (spades), 5 (diamonds), you have nine outs. As the turn and river cards fall, your outs begin to dwindle.
-
Step 3
Fold often. Playing every hand is a sign of weakness and inexperience. Instead, mix up your play. Some hands play the 4-9 off suit while other times folding. Remember an important point: Pocket aces do not automatically win. New players become excited when they see this in the starting hand. However, chasing the turn and river or going all-in before the flop does not guarantee victory. Play aces as you would any other cards.
-
Step 4
Examine the pot and card odds before "chasing." Chasing is a term to describe a player who has a weak hand but calls bets in hopes of gaining better table cards. For instance, starting with A-K diamonds and the flop is "2 (diamonds), 5 (spades), 9 (diamonds)." Another player bets half of your stack. You must decide if the flop odds and the money that is currently in the pot is worth you chasing a pair or flush.
-
Step 5
Learn to control anger and frustration. When you receive a big hit to your stack, some players go "on tilt." This means playing more aggressively and not thinking clearly. Once you begin playing on tilt, your stack will dwindle quickly and you will make poor decisions regarding your cards. If you are angry, stop playing for a moment. Fold the next few hands, no matter what they may be. Relax and get your mind back into the game.
-
Step 6
Study the other players. Watch their cards, movement and facial expressions. Often even the most professional players will have small tells when she has a poor or great hand. If you are in a big hand with another player, stare him down and watch the reaction. In poker, you do not play your cards--you play the player.
