Hand rankings
- Royal flush
- Straight flush
- Four of a kind
- Full house
- Flush
- Straight
- Three of a kind
- Two pair
- One pair
- High card
Position and starting hands
Acting last lets you see what others do first. Play more hands on the button and fewer in early position. As a beginner, raise strong pairs and high cards such as A-K and A-Q, and fold most small, unsuited hands.
Bankroll and stakes
Start at the lowest cash game or tournament buy-in. Keep at least 20 to 30 buy-ins for your level, in a separate bankroll you can afford to lose.
Mistakes to avoid
- Playing too many hands.
- Calling to see what happens.
- Chasing draws without the right price.
- Moving up stakes after a good night.
- Playing tired or on tilt.
Before you sign up
Check that the casino has a poker room at all; many new casinos offer only house-banked poker. Check its licence and test a small withdrawal first.