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Download now at Partypoker.com to start playingSo you've read all the articles, caught a few poker shows, learnt the basics and now you think you're ready to take the plunge.

Before you start though, there are a few basic tips that should help get you rolling - poker is not just about the cards. Its about your opponents on the table, the chips, the betting and whole sleuth of other components.

Partypoker.com - the biggest online poker room of them all - has put together a bunch of hints and tips drawn up by some well-known poker pro's that should put you on the right track

Here are just a few:
- Pay attention - it may seem obvious - but watch the other players. That'll give you some clues as to the aggressive players and the tight players - rule of thumb - play with the loose (aggressive) players and avoid the tight ones unless you have a good hand

- If your cards do not match the community cards, throw your hand away if someone bets.

- Be Patient! Hands to stay with before the flop: pairs (7-7, 9-9), two face cards (K-Q, A-J), or hands that can make both a straight and a flush (8-9, 6-7 of the same suit).

- Take you time. One of the biggest mistakes is to play too quickly - think about the betting and your opponents cards before making a move

- If someone raises in late position, re-raise them a good amount if you are in the blind. Its likely they don't have a real big hand and they are just trying to steal your blinds.

For more tips about Texas Hold'em - or to start playing, visit partypoker.com and download