Poker is one of the most popular card games in the world. It’s fun, challenging and rewarding – but it’s important to understand the rules of the game before you start playing.
Always know the rank of your poker hand. This is vitally important because a good percentage of all beginner mistakes happen when players think they have the best hand but actually don’t. The highest actual hand is a Straight 7-8-9-10-J and the lowest is One Pair (two cards of the same value and three unrelated cards).
Never let another player see your poker cards. This is a major no-no because it gives them an advantage over you, which hurts your chances of winning. This is known as “playing your cards close to the vest” and it’s a key component of the poker strategy of reading other players.
Don’t be afraid to bluff. A good bluff can sometimes save a weak poker hand from losing. Just don’t bluff too much and remember that luck plays an important role in poker as well.
Play only with money you’re willing to lose. A good rule of thumb is to bet no more than twice the minimum amount at any time in a betting round. In limit games this usually means raising the bet by at least $1 each on the pre-flop and flop rounds, and $2 each on the turn and river. This way you’re not risking more than you can afford to lose and your bankroll will grow if you win.