5 Things to Avoid When Playing Poker

It is said that the game of poker offers the best odds of winning in the casino, and this probably has something to do with the fact that you’re playing against other people rather than the house. But before you start playing this fun and potentially lucrative game, you need to understand how to play responsibly and with a bit of class. Here are some things you’ll want to avoid along the way.

Tells. They say every poker player has a “tell,” or some kind of nervous tick that gives them away when they’re lying (or betting). If you’re smart, you’ll figure out what yours is and find a way to hide it from other players. If you watch professionals like those who play in the World Tournament of Poker, you’ll see that some wear dark glasses, some chew gum, and others keep their hands on the cards rather than drumming them on the table. This way, they won’t betray their tells with some kind of twitch. They’re doing this to distract and hide the unconscious signals that give away a bluff, or even a winning hand.

Overspending. If you don’t have the cash, don’t bet it. It’s as simple as that. There’s a reason why Gamblers Anonymous exists, and it’s because people get addicted to the high that comes from rolling the dice and winning. That feeling can drive you to do all kinds of things you never thought you would do. But getting into debt shouldn’t be one of them.

Remember, there’s an equally good chance you could lose, so if you can’t afford to put money in the pot and see it go to one of your opponents, bow out gracefully and try your luck another day. Not knowing the rules. This is a major no-no in any game of chance. If you don’t know what makes a winning hand, how to bet appropriately, or other essential rules of the game, you risk losing your spot at the table, or worse, losing your shirt. If you’re going to play poker for money (instead of just for fun), you need to take the time to learn to the rules of the game ahead of time. Not knowing when to hold or fold. Have you ever been at a blackjack table and seen the fish-out-of-water that hits on a 17 or tries to double down with the wrong cards? You don’t want to be that annoying jerk at the poker table, calling or continuing to bet when you simply don’t have the cards to win. Of course, other players will take your money should you lose. But if you win enough hands with willy-nilly bluffs, they probably won’t invite you back to play again.

Losing your temper. You might not be the highest roller in a Sycuan San Diego casino when you hit the tables, but remember that everyone is there to have a good time. If you happen to be a sore loser (or worse, a bad winner), perhaps games of chance with money on the line are not in the cards for you. If, on the other hand, you can get the entertainment value out of your time playing poker win or lose, then there’s no reason not to ante up and have some fun at the tables.