Useful Poker Etiquette Rules
Minding ones Poker etiquette is an absolute must for players who want to develop their playing skills and character. Whether it be at home or in a casino, good behavior at the game table makes sure that game play proceeds smoothly and without any hitches.
Paying Attention Many players at Poker have been accused of not paying attention to the game. Avoid distractions like answering the cell phone when it rings or chatting with a friend while the game is on. Players will not take your game seriously.
Wait for your turn While patience has it virtue, in Poker it means to wait until your turn comes up next. There is nothing more rude when players jump ahead of other players to raise, call their bets. Its also disadvantageous for the player for it gives the other players a hint of what hand you have.
Don't Talk while the round is still ongoing Once a player has folded, they have the tendency to ramble or chat of what might have happened if they stayed in. Chatting with other players expose how nervous you are and may also give other information of the cards other players hold. This ruins the charm of bluffing for other players.
Don't show the cards until the end Contrary to what people see in moves, Poker players do not flip or flash their cards when folding. Players simply have to lay the cards down on the table and wait. Flashing the cards as you fold gives out info to the other players of what cards may still be on the table. Subtle folding of the cards show that you know how to back away from the game graciously.
Don't throw cards on the table Again, with reference to popular movies, when players signify their bet, players simply slide or stack their bets on the table instead of just tossing them in. This is a rule that must be observed. Splashing the pot, as it is called, makes it hard for the group to tell the amount wagered and could also scatter other peoples bets on the table.
Make straight bets Making a straight bet means mentioning to the dealer whther you will raise or call the bet. Simply mention the word "call" and that's it. No need to add words like"..will raise and call your bet…" This is a bad habit picked up from the movies.Casinos frown on this practice.
Be courteous Players have to practice proper decorum when playing. Even if one has terrible luck at the table does not give them the right to rant and rave as they please. It does nothing other than give the players a bad reputation.
Poker etiquette is one of the strictest in the world of gambling. Poker demands that these rules be followed and its restrictive nature doesn't mean that the player cannot have any fun. The rules were set so that all players at the table may benefit.