Texas Hold’Em is the most played and well known poker game. In the last decade, it has exploded in popularity both online and in casinos. Today, some people are earning their living as professional poker players. While, the instruction necessary to reach this type of status is beyond the scope of this post, we will be providing some tips to make you more competitive at Texas Hold ‘Em.

a. Know When to Fold Them: Novice Texas Hold ‘Em players often make the mistake of staying in games too long when they have no chance of winning. This occurs for two primary reasons. Either they don’t know that they have no chance to win or they mistakenly think that they can turn things around. It is better to fold your hands then to prolong the inevitable and lose more money then you have too.

b. Don’t Bluff For Bluffing Sakes: Another big mistake commonly made by inexperienced poker players is to bluff just to bluff. They have probably watched too many movies where the underdog bluffs his or her way to victory. This may happen in the movies but in real life, talent and experience typically trumps bluffing.

c. Know When to Fast Play or Slow Play: It is important to figure out when to fast play and when to slow play. You should play fast when you are trying to thin out the table quickly. You should slow play when you have a good hand and are trying to fatten up the pot.

d. Don’t Play Inebriated: If you are playing for real money, don’t play when you are drunk. You will likely make bad decisions and lose a ton of money.

e. Don’t Bet What You Can’t Afford to Lose: Never bet more then you can afford to lose. Avoid betting your mortgage or car payment just to continue play.