Poker Beginner - Common Mistakes

By Author: Groshan Fabiola
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In view of the fact that poker games like Texas Hold'em have become very popular it is understandable that a lot of beginning players can be found at online poker sites. Most rookies tend to make many of the same mistakes over and over again.

Here's a list of five common poker beginner mistakes that you should avoid at all times:

1. Playing too many hands before the flop

Playing too many hands before the flop is one of the most common beginner mistakes and normally happens once players get used to the rules of the game and loose patience. They'll play too many hands, folding much too late in the game. This, however, is not the brightest strategy. Obviously poker is much more fun when you are in the hand. Unfortunately, you can't play every starting hand if you want to win money.

According to the overall statistics, more experienced online casino Texas Hold'em players do not fold before the flop about 15 to 20% of the time. Remember that against 9 opponents, you only have 10% chance to have the best hand so don't play too many and do not expect to win each hand you'll play.

2. Bluffing too much

This ...
... is a very common and critical mistake most rookie players make. You have to pick and choose the right times to use a bluff. Even to the most common pros and best players in the world bluffing is a miniscule part of their game. Bluffing should be a carefully used tool. Pick your bluffs wisely but don't overdo it. Experienced players will know when you're bluffing too often and use that info against you.

3. Playing above your bankroll

Most of the rookie players don't understand the importance of bankroll management. They tend become greedy and play at a buy-in level which is much higher than the games they should be playing. First, it's important to know that anything can happen in a poker session due to the variance associated with the game (bad beats, suck-outs,...). Second, sometimes you must take risk in order to make money overall. That makes two good reasons why it's important you always have the proper bankroll to support your actions for the stakes you're playing.

4. Bad positional play

Good positioning means you get to see what your opponents do first before it's your time to act. Based on their betting and behavior, you will be able to make an informed and better decision about what you want to do. The casino blog basic strategy and rule of thumb you need to know is that you want to play more starting hands from a later position and play these hands more aggressively.

5. Not thinking about the long term

Look at the bigger picture and think of poker as a continual, lifelong game. Of course it sucks losing your stack when Kings get cracked by Queens but know that if you get your money in with the best hand you will become a successful and winning poker player in the long run. No matter how bad you run from time to time (due to bad beats or suck-outs), if you make the correct decisions you will always come out with a profit, at the end.

Finally, learn as much as you can by reading poker books and strategy articles, watching videos and observing online or live poker play. Spend much time studying the game and if you follow above mentioned tips, you will have a proper foundation to build upon.

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