Live poker has been a staple in casinos and card rooms for decades. However, with the rise of online poker, many players have never experienced the excitement of playing a live game. If you’re new to live poker or just looking to improve your skills, there are a few things you should know before you sit down at the table.

Playing live poker is not just about luck; it’s about strategy, skill, and respecting your opponents. In this article, we’ll cover the basics of live poker. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, these tips will help you take your game to the next level.

Never Angle Shoot 

Angle shooting is a term used to describe actions that are technically legal but are meant to deceive or mislead other players. This goes against the spirit of fair play and sportsmanship that is expected in poker.

If other players catch on to your angle shooting tactics, they may start to view you as a dishonest player. This can damage your reputation and make it difficult for you to find games in the future. Examples of angle shooting include: 

• Misrepresenting the strength of one’s hand
• Faking a time-sensitive decision
• Creating distractions
• Trying to see other players hold cards 

Don’t be Unnecessarily Slow 

Slow play can be frustrating for other players at the table, causing them to lose interest in the game and potentially leave the table altogether. It can also lead to time constraints, causing the game to run longer than necessary and potentially interfering with other plans or commitments.

Never Discuss Strategy at the Table

Poker is a game of skill and strategy, and discussing your thought process or potential moves can reveal information about your hand, style of play, and overall strategy. This information can be used against you by observant opponents who will be able to adjust their own play accordingly.

Don’t Disrupt Players When Out of Hand

Disturbing other players is the height of bad manners when playing live poker. Furthermore, disrupting a player can also lead to conflicts and arguments at the table, which can create a hostile and uncomfortable environment for everyone involved. This can ruin the fun and social aspect of playing poker and can even lead to the disruption of future games.

Learn Basic Poker Etiquette 

Players who consistently exhibit poor etiquette may be seen as rude or disrespectful, which can lead to social isolation and a negative reputation among the poker community.

Following poker etiquette can help players to build a positive reputation among other players, which can lead to better relationships and more enjoyable games in the future. When playing live poker, be sure to: 

• Avoid talking about the hand while it is still in play.
• Act in turn and avoid acting out of turn, which can give away information to other players. 
• Refrain from using electronic devices at the table unless allowed by the rules of the game or the casino.
• Avoid eating and drinking at the table. 
• Refrain from complaining about bad beats.

By practicing these basic rules and taking the time to learn the nuances of the game, you can improve your chances of success and become a skilled live poker player. So, go ahead and take your seat at the table, and may the cards be in your favor!