Live Play

[greenbuckets]

My 2 cents on live play:

1) You must have patience. You can only play one hand at a time (obviously) so don't get anxious and get into a pots with sub-par hands.

2) I am not a big believer in "tells" but watch people's hands. This is not true for all players, but shaky hands or someone resting their face on their hand is usually an indication of a strong hand.

3) Pay attention. There are no "beeps" to remind you to bet or post blinds. The dealer will remind you, but in the interest of all at the table, pay attention and act when you have to. If you need more time to decide, just say, loud enough for the dealer to hear, "TIME." This lets everyone know you are thinking about your options.

4) If you want to raise, you must either put all your chips out at once. You cannot go back to your stack and get more. This is a string raise and will not be allowed. You can also say "RAISE" and then put your chips out. I find it is easiest just to say the amount you are betting. For instance, if I want to raise a $5 bet to $20, I just say "TWENTY." This lets everyone know you are raising.

5) Protect your cards by placing a chip (or chips) on them. This applies espcially to seat #1 or #10. I have seen dealers scoop cards that were not protected. This, in most casinos, is your fault and even if you had the nuts, your hand will be mucked.

6) Last, but not least, tip the dealer and the cocktail waitresses. They will treat you better!

I think you will find live poker much more fun.