Many consider poker to be one of their favorite games. Make no mistake: some are very good at it, and even those who play it only casually can take all of your money. For those that are new to poker, it can be a little intimidating, to say the least. Nonetheless, there are a few strategies to keep in mind that can help you go from novice to expert and blend in like a pro.
Online poker sites allow you to play poker whether or not you’re a newbie. These sites are great for beginners because of the welcome benefits they offer; they’re also attractive to pros thanks to the loyalty programs offered (source: ukslotsnotongamstop.com). When playing online, follow the tips below to blend in.
Avoid Nervous Giveaways and Tells
It’s all about the tells. It’s one of the most important things to keep in mind when you approach poker more seriously. There are many tells, including fidgety hands, hesitation, facial expressions, and the list goes on. How do you solve this? Practice. Play against yourself in a mirror. Record yourself and watch the videos to see what you’re doing, and then practice keeping a neutral expression.
Don’t look at your cards too much either. The best players have learned to read other players, so keeping your movements and expressions as neutral as possible will help you to blend in with the best. If you find it’s still not enough, and you want to deal with some anxiety, you can simply create a routine before you play each hand. Just make sure you take the same amount of time. Remember, it’s all about remaining neutral and constant.
Project Confidence Through Betting and Decision-Making
Watching elite players reveals that most of them have confidence in common. Even if you don’t feel confident, you need to keep that to yourself. Project confidence in a way that will intimidate your opponents instead of being the one intimidated. It’s not about what you’re feeling; it’s about what they think you’re feeling. Confidence is one of the best ways to show that you’re not a beginner, even if you are. Don’t take too long with your decisions. Trust your instincts, even if you’re still learning. Make sure your bets aren’t too big or too small relative to the size of the pot. Don’t check and call too often. And above all, know your cards.
Blending In and Avoiding Becoming an Easy Target
Have you ever heard the phrase, “monkey see, monkey do?” Most people in the English-speaking world have heard it, and it’s particularly relevant when you don’t want to look like a beginner. Even if you’re intimidated and unsure about what to do, pay attention to what the other players do. How do they look? How do they act? If everyone is talking and having a good time, then by all means, talk along with them! But if they’re quiet and concentrated, then focus on your game.
Make sure you’re able to handle your poker chips as well. Fidgeting and fumbling with chips is a great way to let people know that you’re not experienced. Have a system beforehand, and make sure you can organize and handle your chips fluidly.
Understanding Table Etiquette
Pay attention, and be polite. I’m talking about table etiquette. Don’t go when it’s not your turn. Don’t offer up information that isn’t asked for. Don’t overreact to good or bad hands. All of these things are a dead giveaway that you’re pretty new.
Keep in mind that poker is like the tide: it has its ups and its downs, and you need to remember that when you lose a hand. We all lose hands in poker, but what makes the difference between a pro and a novice is how you handle it. Do throw a fit, and don’t panic! You’ll get another chance.
Learning from Experience
In the end, the best way to project experience is with experience, by learning the game. Get some rounds under your belt. Learn when it’s best to fold, and when it’s best to call or check your opponents. Watching high-end players can also give you some insight into how to behave in the higher-stress games. Or rather, you gain experience through the experience of others!
Ultimately, not looking like a beginner when playing poker doesn’t have to be complicated. Know the game (study it beforehand!), check your tells, and respect the table etiquette.
