Seven Poker Strategies for Beginners

min read
a man is sitting at a green felt poker table with stacks of poker chips and four playing cards laid out face down in front of him, he is looking inquisitively at his hole cards in his left hand
BetMGM Apr 18, 2024, 3:13 AM

Poker is a complex game with a long history, especially for the non-initiated. There are many different strategies that can be used to win at poker, the best of which will depend largely on your playing style and the type of poker you’re playing. Unlike your regular games, there are some basic strategies that all beginners should know when it comes to playing poker. In this blog, we discuss seven poker strategies for beginners that can help you improve your game, whether playing in-person or online poker. 

So, are you ready to step into the thrilling world of poker? Whether you’re a complete newbie or have dabbled in a few games before, having the right poker strategy in your arsenal can make all the difference. In this blog, we will reveal seven powerful poker strategies designed specifically for newbies like you. Get ready to elevate your game!

The Basics

Before we dive into these strategies, let’s quickly go over the basics. Poker is a captivating card game that combines skill, strategy and a sprinkle of luck. Mostly. The goal is to build the strongest hand or cleverly convince your opponents to fold. With countless variations and exciting gameplays and destinations, from poker casinos to online poker sites, the game has become a global sensation.

In order to learn how to do that, beginners have to make sure they’re on top of some key strategies which are generally considered indispensable to navigating the poker table with confidence. 

1. Start Low and Slow

As a newbie, it’s best to start with low-stakes games – just to be on the safe side or until you’ve gained some hands-on experience and are comfortable with some of the basic strategies of the game. Playing low-stakes games for a while will also allow you to get a better feel of what is at stake without breaking the bank. Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither are online poker legends. Take your time, gain experience and gradually move up to higher-stakes games.

2. Master Hand Selection

Choosing the right hands to play is critical in poker. As a beginner, focus on playing strong starting hands. Fold the weaker ones and only get involved when you have premium hands such as pocket pairs (two cards of the same rank,) high-suited connectors or strong aces. 

3. Embrace Positional Play

Positional play is a bit of a secret weapon. Actively seek opportunities to play more hands in late position (closer to the dealer button) and exercise caution when you’re in early position. Why? Because acting last gives you a significant advantage. You get to observe your opponents’ actions and make more informed decisions. This is one of those poker strategies for beginners which will become indispensable once you start playing poker online.

4. The Art of the Bluff

Ah, the infamous bluff and the stuff that movies are made of. It’s an essential part of the game, but don’t go crazy with it just yet. Bluff wisely and selectively. As a beginner, focus on understanding the optimal moments for bluffing. This includes situations where you have a tight table image or when the community cards suggest a strong hand that you can convincingly represent. Bluffing without a solid plan can lead to disaster, so tread carefully.

5. Read Your Opponents

Poker is not just about the cards; it is about reading the people sitting across from you. Pay attention to your opponents’ playing styles, tendencies and patterns. Are they aggressive or passive? Do they bluff often or play it safe? By keenly observing and categorizing your opponents, you gain valuable insights. This knowledge empowers you to adjust your strategies and exploit their weaknesses.

6. Manage Your Bankroll

Bankroll management is a vital skill for any poker player. Set aside a specific amount of money exclusively for poker and avoid risking more than a small portion of your bankroll in a single game or tournament. Remember, poker is a marathon, not a sprint. Proper bankroll management ensures that you can weather the storm of losses and continue playing without wiping out your funds or going bankrupt.

7. Never Stop Learning

In the ever-evolving world of poker, there’s always something new to learn, even for the legends. To stay ahead of the curve, cultivate a hunger for knowledge. Seek out online poker resources, tutorials and communities where you can interact with experienced players. The more you learn, the more confident and successful you’ll become.

Now that you have at least seven basic strategies at your disposal to guide you when you play poker online, it’s time to hit the tables and put them into action. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged by initial setbacks. Get some in-depth knowledge about how casinos operate.  Keep refining your skills, adapting your strategies and honing your instincts. With dedication and perseverance, you’ll soon find yourself raking in the chips and enjoying the thrilling world of poker. Learning, they say, never ends. So, keep learning to keep winning.  

If you’d like to put your skills to the test, register today!

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Our BetMGM editors and authors are casino experts with a wealth of knowledge of the online casino industry at all levels. Their coverage includes company news, game reviews, how-to instructional articles, strategy guides, and editorials showcasing BetMGM’s superior product and game library.

Our BetMGM editors and authors are casino experts with a wealth of knowledge of the online casino industry at all levels. Their coverage includes company news, game reviews, how-to instructional articles, strategy guides, and editorials showcasing BetMGM’s superior product and game library.