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Top 10 Rookie Mistakes in Poker

Posted on December 31, 2007

We've compiled a list of the top 10 biggest rookie mistakes in poker. If any of these characteristics are representative of your game, it's time for you to re-evaluate your situation!

10) Playing any suited ace in any position to any bet – too many players think it’s a crime to fold if you have an ace. Read a book!

9) Set mining with every pocket pair – sometimes it’s correct to fold your pocket pair preflop when facing a raise.

8) Playing too many hours – your brain just doesn’t function the same way after 14 hours of sitting at a poker table! Take a break, grab some food, take a shower, get some sleep. You’ll be refreshed and play better the next day.

7) Bluffing way too much – if you bluff too much, you’ll find yourself spewing away your hard earned cash. Your bluffs should be well timed and with a lower frequency. Don’t bluff calling stations!

6) Playing outside of your bankroll – one of the biggest mistakes rookies make; don’t play if you can’t afford it. Do you have $1,000 to your name? Don’t play that $500 sit-n-go.

5) Playing on tilt – if you take a bad beat, do something to relax yourself. Stand up, take some deep breaths. If this doesn’t help, quit. You shouldn’t let your emotions get the best of you at the poker table.

4) Playing without patience – if you’re bored, quit! Don’t play every hand, you’ll be giving away money.

3) Drinking at the table - Stop tossing them back! If you're playing to make some cash, alcohol is not going to help you. Grab some water, some coffee, some tea... it's healthier, and you'll focus better.

2) Trying to table coach – So you got sucked out on. Don’t berate the other player. In the long run, you’ll be winning all of his money!

1) Overplaying AK – Remember, Ace King is still a drawing hand. Sure, raise with it preflop, it’s a strong hand. However, if you face an all-in on a QJ9 board, chances are your AK is not good. Make the laydown.

- A Guide to Tipping at Casinos