Beginners Poker - Poker Etiquette

Poker is so big nowadays that it has brought about the rise of Poker Superstars, and the inevitable imitation of these players by beginners. Some of the most popular and colourful characters on TV are Phil "PokerBrat" Helmuth and Mike "The Mouth" Matusow. While not known for their impeccable behaviour all the time, you'll never see them breaking fundamental poker etiquette. Here's a guide to avoid you making them too.

Poker's Golden Rules

• When folding, never allow other players to see your cards if the hand is still in progress.
• Do not fold your cards out of turn. Not only is this impatient, but it can have an effect on how the hand is later played. It gives the player to left a significant advantage.
• Always keep your cards in plain view at all time.
• If you do find the overwhelming urge to show the other players your cards at a showdown, the general rule is: show one, show them all.
• Never show your cards if you are all in, before the side pot betting is complete.
• Do not handle other people's chips or cards

These are the golden rules and here are a few more rules which will ensure that you will get invited back to games.

• Do not criticize other methods of play
• Do not splash the pot, it takes longer for the dealer to assess that you have bet the correct amount
• Don't give in-depth analysis of past hands, you'll only bore others
• Don't try to educate other players during a game. Happily take their money instead
• In a home cash game, if you're way ahead for the night and want to leave, announce your intention about an hour before you want to go. This gives the players a chance to win some money back.
• Be humble in victory and gracious in defeat.

By all means show your personality while at the poker table; don't go easy on anyone, talk a lot, have a joke, but always be respectful to other players. Disrespecting is not a way to get invited back to future games.