Texas Hold Em Poker Tournament

Basic Poker Etiquette for Beginners

In anything we do in our everyday lives, it is important that we follow some basic rule of etiquette so that order is maintained. Even in Poker, we should all remember to take note of basic Poker etiquette to make sure that our game runs smoothly, not only for us, but also for everyone else on the table.

The first advice is to always wait your turn. There may be times when you get too excited with a good hand that you just can't wait to raise the pot or you get agitated over a couple of bad cards and you just want to fold at first glimpse of it. Don't tip off other players by suddenly playing out of turn. This will lead to confusion on the table. So let's say that you folded, once you've done this, never chat up the other players about your cards while the hand is still taking place. This will give players still in the hand, information that they could use to their advantage. So keep those lips sealed. Another faux pas is revealing your cards before showdown. When you fold, don't just throw your cards into the pile scrappily as other players may see these cards and again, use unsolicited information that may affect the rest of the game. And once you've shown your cards, don't just show it to the player beside you. Make sure that everyone on the table sees your cards and not just the chosen few, which may lead to a bit of tension with your fellow players.

Next, let us talk about betting. Don't fling your pot into a big mess, that will make it hard for everyone else in the table to make out how much you've bet. Always put your chips in a neat stack in front of you. Never call out string bets. You have to say out loud whether you're calling or raising and once you've decided on your action, that's all you should do. Don't call and raise at one go.

During the whole game, always maintain your composure, even if you are in the middle of an unlucky streak. Stop yourself from shouting out anything mean or rude that may offend anyone on the table. Be nice to the dealer, he has nothing to do with your luck and the game is just a game, it is nothing personal. Last advice but the most sensible is always pay attention to the game. Do not get distracted by other things like women or your cell phone. The game should keep going on avoid doing anything that may cause delay.

Don't forget these basic rules of Poker etiquette and have fun on your next Poker match!