Tip 2

Do not make the mistake of getting so caught up in your own cards that you fail to observe the actions of the other players. What are their starting hand requirements? Do they bet aggressively or typically call, even with strong hands? Do they ever fold when bluffed? What card are they betting on? In certain games, these powers of observation will win you serious money. In 7 card stud, it is of utmost importance that you know how many of “your cards” or “outs“ are showing in other players' hands, as well as how many were in hands that were folded.

The fact that you fold 70% of your starting cards gives you ample time to study and observe your opponents. Don't sit back and zone out...lean forward and see what can be learned about them that will help when its you heads up against them.

Tip 3

Poker players have a term for when a player has become emotionally unable to play a good game. Its called “tilt.” Many things can cause you to go on tilt. Fatigue and frustration to name just a couple. If you feel tired, or you have taken several bad beats and are feeling frustrated, it might be wise to call it a night. At least take a break! You need to have your mind completely sharp and focused at the poker table.

A lot of people learn how to play poker by playing in a similar fashion to other people. They may just imitate others at the table, or they may try to play like a professional they saw on television. This is the wrong way to go about playing poker.

Many people who play poker are simply bad at it. Imitating a poorly-skilled player means copying a lot of their bad habits. Furthermore, trying to imitate what one saw on television is also a recipe for disaster. What is shown on television is almost always a tournament, and their hands are highly situational. The reasons for the professional's decision probably has little applicability to your own game.

It is important to understand how to make decisions at poker. Succeeding at poker is not done through imitation; rather, it is done through understanding the complexities of the game.