All About Poker Etiquette

For many years, poker has been enjoyed by many people in a family setting or in a more competitive environment such as in casinos and other game rooms. Thanks to the Internet, it is now possible to play poker online. This means that people can play from the comfort of their homes without having to play with other players. Virtual games can be played alone with the computer controlled software as the only other player or dealer or can be played with other online players. These virtual players can be located thousands of miles apart but brought together by internet connection. No matter where the poker game is played, poker etiquettes will remain the same and it’s expected that all players acquaint themselves with them.

Poker players should know what acceptable behavior is and what it’s not in poker games. Although the different variants of the game may have slightly different rules, the basics of the games will remain the same. These are not hard and fast rules but they go to make the game more interesting.

Some poker etiquettes to follow

• Never be in a haste to play until it’s your turn to do so. Also avoid acting in such a way that may let other players decipher your cards
• The only time for cards to be shown during a game is at the end of the game. Even cards of those who’ve left a round are only shown at the end of the game. As such, it is improper for people to make comments about the game while it’s still on. Even if a player had folded earlier, they should not talk about the hand as it may influence the game in one way or the other.
• In poker players use any information they can get to help their game.
• There are string bets but they are only allowed to occur in films. In real live play, it is more advisable to call or raise and not do both.
• While playing remember to be in the game and don’t get distracted. It is not good to always be reminded by fellow players about your turn.
• If you think you have the winning hand, instead of showing it to one person, it is better to show it to all players. If you’re that confident, drop the cards on the table for all to see.
• Sometimes players decide to pretend they have bad hand when they are actually having the winning hand. This can be very frustrating to other players.
• Poker is just a game and some days your good luck is very high and other days it’s very low. You will win some and lose some. Whether winning or losing, endeavour to put up your best behavior.
• House rules are usually set and read out to all players. Everyone with no exceptions is bound by these rules.

Some may say that rules are meant to be broken but if the game of poker has lived till this day, it is because such simple poker etiquette is respected hence ensuring a free and fair game anytime.