***SPONSORED POST***
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