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Texas Hold'em Essentials

by Bill Burton
for About.com

Texas Holdem is the most popular poker game in the world. Since you are playing against other players you can get and advantage if you learn to play correctly. Each round of Texas Holdem has a strategy to determine whether you should keep playing or fold your hand. If you are new to the game or want to get better results this information should help you improve your play.

1. Texas Holdem 101

Many people have watched Texas Holdem tournaments on television and it looks easy to play. However before you race down to the casino and sign up for a high stakes tournament you need to learn the basics of the game and get some playing experience in low limit games.Here is how to play the game.

2. Common Texas Holdem Mistakes

Making mistakes when playing Texas Holdem can be costly if you make them but they can be profitable if your opponent makes them. Learning to avoid some common mistakes will improve your game and increase your bankroll. Here are some common mistakes that are made when playing Texas Holdem.

3. Texas Holdem Starting Hands

The most important decision you will make when playing Texas Holdem is choosing your starting hands. Most players lose because they play too many hands. In order to be a winning player you must be selective in choosing your starting hand.

4. The Importance of Position

Position is one of the most overlooked and misunderstood concepts of Texas Holdem. Many new players will pay their hand without regarding their position. Not all Holdem hands are playable from every position.

5. Playing the Flop

Choosing to play a starting hand is the biggest decision you will make while playing Texas Holdem. Deciding whether to continue playing after seeing the flop will be your second biggest decision. It can also be one of the most costly decisions if you continue after the flop with an inferior hand.

6. Playing the Turn

In limit Texas Holdem the Turn is the turning point in the hand. The betting limits are doubled and you have seen 86 % of your final hand. With one card to come you now have a big decision to make whether to play or fold. A wrong decision could be a costly mistake.

7. Playingthe River

The river is the last community card in Texas Holdem. If you have been playing properly you will not see the river card unless you have a strong hand that is a favorite to win or you have a draw to a winning hand. Once the river card is turned over, you know exactly what you have. Playing decisions on the river are easier than during other round but they do require some thought.

8. Playing Casino Poker

Playing casino poker is quite different from playing in a home game. There are certain procedures and protocols you will need to understand before you sit down to play. Here are ten tips to help you play like a pro.

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