Everyone sucks at poker in the beginning. It’s a rite of passage. But if you can skip a few facepalm moments by learning from other people’s mistakes, you’ll be way ahead of the curve.
1. Playing Too Many Hands
You’re not here to see every flop. That’s not poker, that’s charity. Fold more.
2. Calling Too Much
“Call mode” is a chip-leaking disease. Raise with purpose or fold. Calling everything gets expensive.
3. Falling in Love With a Hand
Yes, pocket Kings are pretty. But the board doesn’t care about your feelings. Stay objective.
4. Bluffing Way Too Much
Don’t bluff because it feels cool. Bluff when it makes sense. Otherwise, you’re just donating chips.
5. Ignoring Position
Position = power. Don’t treat all seats equally. Play tighter early, looser late.
6. Not Paying Attention
If you’re scrolling TikTok between hands, you’re missing valuable reads. Watch your opponents.
7. Getting Emotional (Tilt)
Lost a big hand? Don’t go full rage mode. Take a breath. Tilt makes bad decisions happen fast.
8. Misunderstanding Hand Strength
Top pair isn’t always the nuts. Rethink your hand as the board evolves.
9. Playing Above Your Bankroll
If losing your buy-in stings financially, you’re playing too high. Downshift stakes and protect your sanity.
10. Thinking It’s All Luck
Yes, poker has luck. But it’s a game of skill over time. Focus on making better decisions, not chasing flukes.
Recap
Avoiding these rookie mistakes will instantly put you ahead of most casual players. Learn from them, stay disciplined, and keep improving.
Next Up: Bankroll Management