Poker can be a challenging game to get into. As a new player, you’ll have to learn the basics, but it can be difficult to do when playing online is so competitive. Luckily, there are loads of guides and videos that can help you out. Free information on poker is everywhere, and you can find paid courses if you prefer. Getting started can be quite daunting for most players, and you’re bound to make mistakes. If you’re playing for real money, mistakes can cost you, so it’s best to avoid them when possible. Here are some of the most common mistakes that new players make at the poker table.
Not Planning Ahead
Many new players start off making decisions in the moment based on what the other players around them have done. The best players will have a strategy going into the game and will change it over time as needed. But ideally, you should always be thinking ahead and planning your next move. Have a plan based on the cards that come in, and be prepared to make changes based on new information from how your opponents react. This is especially important when checking or calling.
Getting Tilted
Poker is all about careful strategy and staying calm under pressure. While it’s important to stay calm, many players will often get upset or tilted when they lose, particularly if it’s a bad beat. Getting tilted and emotional will often cause you to lose control of your strategy, leading to more losses and worse outcomes. As much as poker is about strategy, it’s also about staying in control of your emotions. If you want to have the most success, you’re going to need to keep your emotions in check and avoid getting tilted. You can practice this by playing at low-stakes tables or simply by ending the game and taking a break if you’re losing too often.
Ignoring Your Opponents
It’s easy to only focus on your hand and your own strategy when you play poker, especially when you’re new. However, the best players know that paying attention to your opponents is just as important. Some players will give tells about how they play, and you’ll also notice patterns in strategy and behavior if you watch closely. Over time, you’ll get much better at reading your opponents and learning how it affects the game.
Not Using a Poker HUD
Poker heads-up displays (HUDs) are useful software tools that are available when playing online poker. Not all sites accept HUDs, but if you’re playing at one that does, you should definitely make the most of it. This software will track your hands and those of your opponents, giving you useful data on how people are playing. You can use this data to improve your strategy and have greater success. While you shouldn’t depend on HUDs, they are very useful tools, especially when you’re just starting out and things are still new to you.
Photo by Elisa Ventur
