10 Top Tips To Help You Become A Better Poker Player

It's near impossible to put a game as complex as poker down to just a few bullet points but I've compiled a list of ten tips that, if you can work on them, should improve your play. I wouldn't recommend forcing yourself to do all these in one go but to incorporate each one into your play as you progress. (They're in no particular order!)

Play like a fearless warrior. - A lot of people feel under pressure when making tough decisions; even more so at a poker table. Don't let it get to you. If you're afraid of making a decision, you're probably going to make the wrong one!

Know when to fold your cards. - Pocket rockets (AA) are highly over-estimated, in my opinion. On a 10-player table you have just a 34% chance of winning with them. If you think you're beat, don't be afraid to put them down.

Find your forté. - We all have strengths and weaknesses. Play to your strengths. It may sound like common sense but it seems to be rare in a lot of people. If you're a good $50 NLHE player, don't suddenly jump into $50 Omaha without expecting to take a massive loss. Start your weaker games at lower stakes.

Don't fall in love with a specific pair of hole cards. - Some people win with 8-3 offsuit once and think they're invincible. I'll tell you now; you're not. Remember that because poker can be a hard teacher and every mistake will cost you.

Bet like a professional. - Professionals rarely give away what cards they have through their bets. They don't fall into a pattern and they make good bets. Don't over-bet but don't let your opponents get away too cheaply either.

Bluff like a professional. - Bluff too often and it will only be a matter of time before someone catches you out, yet, if you bluff too little, you could miss out on extra pots. Strike the balance for maximum effect!

Prepare yourself. - Make sure you are in a good mental, physical and emotional state before you play. You wouldn't be in poor condition before running a marathon so don't be in poor condition when you play poker!

Don't become predictable. - If you're easy to read, you're fish. The sharks will be on you in no time...

Keep an open mind. - Not everyone will play in the same way as you because there are many different styles of play. Keep an open mind and be ready to try different styles of play to improve your game.

Be Yourself. - If you let other players dictate what you do, you're giving them a big psychological advantage. Just be yourself.