Tips

These are some handy tips that I use when playing no limit poker.

1) No set no bet, this is a saying that a lot of good players use when you are dealt a small pocket pair. Basically if you don't get a set (3 cards the same i.e. 3 x 2's) then don't make big bets or you will most likely regret it. You can be easily beaten by an over card.

2) Maximize profits from a good hands when you hit a full house, high flush etc then bet big or go all in. If someone calls you can easily double your stack or more.

3) If you hit four of a kind or straight flush, then make sure you slow play the hand to the river then go all in to maximize your profits.

4) Don't over bet without a good hand i.e. trips or a flush etc.

5) Stay out of large confrontations unless you hold the nuts or close to it. These are the easiest way for you to be eliminated from a tournament especially if you have a less than premium hand. Large confrontations will usually eliminate 1 or more players from a tournament this only helps you to move closer to the final table and a chance at a win.

6) Position is your first consideration in no limit holdem. Pro players will always look at their position before looking and considering what cards they hold. With poor position you need a stronger hand to play than in a better position.

7) Whether you should chase hands such as a flush or a straight depend on a number of factors. Things you should consider include: a)How many chips you will use to chase. b) If you do hit your straight or flush are you likely to have the best hand. c) Do you have an open ended straight draw or are you drawing to one card.

8) If you think you have the best hand then bet make other players pay to chase their draws.

9) When chasing draws consider only risking a percentage of your stack. Depending on your position and other factors between 5-10% can be a good guide.

10) Many players enter pots then fold too soon. If you hit a pair on the flop after limping in from the blinds then you may be in front. If you only have to pay a minimum raise to see the turn then consider calling. If you hit trips or two pair on the turn then there is a good chance you have the best hand. A lot of players will make a small bet after the flop with anything in their hand to see if they can take the pot unchallenged.

11) Don't bluff in the early stages of a tournament. Blinds are low and they are not worth stealing at this stage. You are taking an unnecessary risk with your chips. Later when antes kick in and blinds are high its worth trying to steal the blinds in fact its crucial if you want to maintain a healthy stack.

12) If you do make it to the final table of a tournament you are going to have to change gears and become a lot more aggressive especially when there are only a few players left.