Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced poker player, there are plenty of tips and tricks you can learn that will help you become a better player. Some of these tips are simple and easy to implement while others require a lot of work, but they can all pay off in the long run.
1. Don’t let bad beats sting
One of the most frustrating things about poker is losing a pot when you think you have the best hand. Sometimes, this can happen right as you’re raking in all the chips in a big hand, only to see a lucky card pop up on the turn or river that makes your opponent’s hand even stronger than yours.
2. Don’t get tunnel vision
A lot of new players struggle to make sense of what their opponents might have, especially when they’re bluffing or holding a very strong hand. This is because they often focus too much on their own hand and not enough on what their opponents might have.
This can be a difficult lesson to learn, but it’s crucial for any poker player. It’s also important to remember that you can’t predict what your opponents will do unless you know their game really well.
3. Don’t be too superstitious
If you’re a poker player who feels that playing a particular way will win them money, or that losing a particular hand will hurt your bankroll, you should try to change your attitude. Playing the way you want to play will help you win more and won’t put you at risk for a losing streak.
4. Use a strategy list
Using a strategy list will help you determine what hands are worth betting and which ones to fold. It’s like a cheat sheet that has all the different ways you can win in a poker game and ranks them from best to worst.
5. Always keep your sizing in mind
If your opponent is raising or calling, it’s very likely that they have a very strong hand. This means that they’re probably thinking about their hand more than yours, so you should call if you have a decent hand.
6. Always bet scare cards
When you’re bluffing or having a strong hand, it’s usually a good idea to bet scare cards that represent monsters. This will give you an edge over your opponents and will ensure that you can bluff them out of the pot.
7. Be patient and aggressive when needed
When it comes to poker, patience and aggression are two of the most important skills a player can have. They’re necessary in assessing risks and rewards, and they can also help you build confidence in your game.
8. Don’t ever play on tilt
It’s a common mistake for beginner poker players to play a bit too emotionally and superstitiously. They’ll make mistakes and then get upset when they lose. This can be a huge mistake and can lead to them losing more than they should.