Poker Tips

Don't rely on sunglasses to hide your expression. There are more to tells than just your face. Have several home games with friends and agree to point out each other's tells at the end of the game. Other people are able to observe from an outside perspective your body language, expressions, voice changes, posture, and betting habits.

Asking the person across the table to count their chips is a classic, and often used, example of talking to your opponent to pick up a tell. But that example usually requires very limited circumstances, usually when your opponent has gone all-in. As an alternative (which shouldn't be overused, because you'll sound stupid in repetition), you can ask what the total bet is. The question is usually directed to and answered by the dealer, but in the meantime, you can watch your opponent while discourse is taking place.

Don't be afraid to use your chips to gather information. Sometimes a massage bet of medium strength can help to eliminate weaker hands limping in and help gauge the strength of the remaining players' hands. If you're unsure about the comparative strength of your hand (especially after the flop), it's better to make a medium sized bet that can confuse your opponent (leaving them wondering if it's a bet that you want them to call or a bluff) or test the strength of their resolve than to make a larger bet and wind up folding once you realize they're not backing down.

If you've ever spent any time in a casino, you know that getting a hold of a waitress is nigh impossible. That's why it's a good idea to come prepared and supplied for your next casino-based tournament. Weariness and fatigue, which are unavoidable, can quickly cramp your game, and the best defense is to renew your body's energy stores throughout the day. Don't go so far as packing an ice chest, but bring a small bag with a couple bottles of water and a handful of granola or energy bars. Most tournaments will have concessions, but leaving the table means you're missing hands, and the breaks are few and far between. Make sure you visit the complimentary concession bar during those breaks and snag a few refreshments to carry back with you. Often the casino will have free gifts for entrants which are sometimes packed with trail mix, peanuts, and mints. Eating at the table isn't out of line, but try to be somewhat discreet.

When playing online, download an odds calculator. This will help to curtail your gambling instincts and increase your understanding of when seemingly powerful cards are much weaker than you realize. The programs themselves range widely in usefulness and price (from free to ad-supported to free-trials to $40 for the full program). Many will automatically plug in to the gaming software and auto-read your hole cards and the board. Just do a google search for "poker odds calculator" and surf around for a good choice. Or check our reviews section for helpful suggestions and reviews of the better, and worse, odds calculators.