Making the Transition From Beginner to Winner

Poker is a game where both luck and skill are required to win. But if you want to make the transition from break-even beginner player to big-time winner, there are a few key adjustments that you can learn over time that will help you start winning at a much faster rate. The first adjustment involves starting to view the game in a more cold, detached, and mathematical way. Emotional and superstitious players almost always lose or struggle to remain even.

Once the two cards have been dealt, the first round of betting starts with 2 mandatory bets called blinds that are put into the pot by the players to the left of the dealer. This will give players an incentive to play their hands, and it will also allow them to see the other players’ cards.

After the first round of betting, one more card is dealt face up – this is known as the turn. Now you can see all the other players’ cards and they can decide whether to call, raise or fold.

Beginners need to learn to read other players and look for tells. This includes everything from observing their eye movements and idiosyncrasies to hand gestures and betting behavior. For example, if an opponent who frequently calls suddenly makes a huge raise on the river, it could mean that they have an incredible hand. The best poker players are able to be very patient and only raise when their hands deserve it.