Poker is a game of skill, psychology and luck but it can also be a very profitable hobby or even a full-time career. As a new player you want to make sure that you’re using all of the available tools for learning the game and not making any mistakes that can demolish your bankroll before you even learn how to play.
The first step is to start playing low stakes. This will allow you to play against weak players and increase your skill level without giving away too much money to those with more experience. It’s also a good idea to keep records of your wins and losses because this will protect you from any legal issues down the road.
After you’ve established your bankroll and you know how to play the game, you can move up the stakes slowly but surely. This way you’ll be able to practice bluffing with less risk and donate less money to better players. This is the best way to advance in poker without blowing your whole bankroll.
Another key tip is to read the tells of other players at the table. There are a few classic tells to watch out for like shallow breathing, sighing, flaring nostrils, and sweaty palms. These are all signs that a player has a strong hand. Other tells include an increasing pulse seen in the neck or temple, a hand over the mouth to conceal a smile, and a staring pattern.