Some form of rules and regulations binds everything we do in life. From school to sports, to even just driving down the street – there are always rules in place that we must follow—the same when you play poker online.
While poker is a game of skill, strategy, and luck, it is also a game that comes with its own set of unspoken rules or etiquette. These guidelines exist to ensure that the game is fair and everyone involved is enjoying themselves. The same is true for online poker}}; just because you do not see the other players face-to-face does not mean there are not some basic manners that you should follow.
Here are eight big proper etiquette tips for new online poker players:
Angle shooting is a term used to describe unethical or unfair play. This behavior is unacceptable in online poker and can result in players being banned from casinos. In poker, angle shooters often try to take advantage of players who do not have the experience or skill.
Here are some examples of offline angle shooting:
No one likes to be kept waiting, especially when money is involved. In online poker, there is a general rule of 30 seconds to make a move. If you take longer than this, your hand will be automatically folded. While this may seem like a short amount of time, it is more than enough time to make a decision – especially if you are playing multiple tables at once. Just be respectful of the other players’ time and play at a reasonable pace.
Good thing most poker sites already have timers that force you to decide with a time limit.
This is one of the most essential online poker etiquette tips. Just because you are playing online does not mean you can talk as much as you want. While there is less risk of dealing with a chatty opponent at online poker, some virtual poker sites have a chat function. Some players can use the chat to distract others from concentrating on their hands and strategies.
Here are some things you should avoid saying while playing online poker:
Do not trash talk other players
This will only make them play better or could make them tilt (play recklessly).
Avoid using profanity
This is just rude and offensive.
Do not give away information about your hand or strategy.
This could be used against you later on in the game.
This goes hand in hand with the last tip. Just because you have a great hand or just won a big pot does not mean you need to announce it to the world (or at least the table). This is considered horrible etiquette and will only make other players angry. It could also give away information about your hand that you do not want others to know.
This is just good manners in general. No one wants to play with someone who is rude or insulting. Be polite and respectful to the other players at all times. This includes using please, thank you, and ‘congrats’ when appropriate. Being online does not give you the right to be obnoxious.
Being rude to other players in poker is called “glass tapping.” Examples of glass tapping are:
Professional players like to think of this game as a gentleman’s sport. So, please clean it up and try to keep it classy for the sake of the community.
This is more of a technical tip, but it is still vital. If you have a bad connection, it could result in lost hands or even getting disconnected from the site. This is not only unfair to you but also to the other players who are trying to enjoy the game. Only play if you have a stable internet connection.
This is considered lousy poker etiquette because it can give away information to the other players. They could use this information against you in future hands. It is best to keep your mouth shut about folded hands and just concentrate on the hand that you are currently playing.
No one likes a know-it-all, especially on poker sites. Just because you have been playing for a while or read a few books on the subject does not mean that you know everything.
Worse, these know-it-alls even go out of their way to teach the other players. This is not only annoying, but it is also bad etiquette. Just keep your mouth shut and concentrate on your own game.
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Keep poker a fun game to play
Poker is a gentleman’s game and should be treated as such. Be polite to the other players and respect their time. Also, do not give away information about your hand or strategy. Follow these simple tips, and you will make a good impression on the other players.
