Poker: General Tips

Playing poker in an unfamiliar poker room may be intimidating at first, specially so if you're playing with complete strangers. Don't let that spoil your day however. If possible, take a friend with you. This would relieve some stress from having to play in a new poker room.

If you can't find one, it is important to note that every single individual in the room you'll be playing in was once new too. Here are some other helpful tips to consider once you're ready to play poker.

Never act when it is not yet your turn. Acting before your turn is a practice that everyone frowns upon, and understandably so. This is one of the main unwritten rules of poker as doing so can alter the result of a hand. Other players will surely be bothered if you do this as this is very poor etiquette that should never happen in a poker table.

Always keep your cards where others can see them. Removing them from plain sight may lead to accusations of you cheating and this is always a bad thing.

Tipping the dealer is not a requirement as in most table games, but if the dealer is polite and helpful or you're winning, you should consider giving tips to the dealer. Most dealers probably earn more from tips than from their salaries, so it's best to keep this in consideration. Excessive tipping however is not suggested. Watch how the other players tip so you can have an idea on how it should be done.

Upon winning a pot, don't take it or reach for it. It is the dealer's responsibility to give you the pot by pushing it to you. Also, until the pot has been given to you, don't give your cards to the dealer.

"Splashing", which is a term given to the action of throwing chips into the pot is another practice that should be avoided. Place your bets in front of you and wait for the dealer who will eventually take them and put them into the pot.

Don't leave your cards unprotected. Keep your hand on your cards or place chips on them. These will prevent the dealer from making the mistake of mucking them since it will show the dealer that they are still live cards.

These are just a few tips that you should follow when playing poker. Following these guidelines will ensure a much smoother flow of the game.