Poker is a game that requires a lot of mental effort, rewards actual skill unlike slots or the lottery and can be played anywhere with an internet connection. Online poker takes that notion and cranks it up a notch, you can play for the smallest stakes imaginable (literally pennies) all the way up to satellite entries into the biggest live tournaments around the world. And you can do it from any computer, tablet or mobile device.
Getting started with poker online is pretty simple. You’ll need to sign up for an account with the poker site of your choice. Once you have that taken care of you can download the poker client and start playing for real money. It’s important to choose a site that is regulated in your jurisdiction and uses top of the line encryption methods to protect your account information and funds.
Once you’ve got the client downloaded you’ll see a lobby that is categorized by Cash Games, Tournaments, Sit & Go’s and whatever other formats the poker site runs. Most sites will also offer a free play tab where you can get a feel for the speed and features of the poker client.
While most people think of Texas Hold’em when they hear the word poker, you can actually find a wide range of games at any poker site including Omaha and 7 Card Stud. It is recommended that you try out each type of game to find the one that suits you best.
Many new players will also want to check out the “beginner” tables that most online poker rooms provide. This will ensure that you’re seated with other players who have classed themselves as beginners which levels the playing field for you.
Another advantage of online poker is the ability to play more than one table at a time. While this may seem intimidating it’s actually quite easy once you’ve gotten the hang of it. It allows you to maximize your winning potential and minimize your losses by taking advantage of your opponents weakness.
Aside from being able to play more than one table at a single time, online poker offers the convenience of being able to use a variety of tools to help you improve your game. Some of these include a hand history tracker, which allows you to view your past hands and analyze your play along with that of your competition. A HUD (heads-up display) takes this a step further by displaying key statistics during the hand so you can make informed betting decisions.
It’s also important to practice good time management by only playing when you’re able to give the game your full attention. It’s also recommended that you never play when you’re tired as this will lead to a number of mistakes. Finally, be sure to understand that poker is a lifelong game and you should always continue to learn. If you find that your level of skill isn’t increasing then don’t be afraid to drop down in limits until you’re ready for more.
