Posts Tagged ‘poker table’

How to Choose a Poker Table Online

Thursday, December 3rd, 2009

One of the most frequently overlooked factors about playing poker online is deciding which table you will play at. Contrary to popular belief, not all poker tables are created equal. Once you’ve determined which poker variation you want to play and the stakes you want to play at you still may have your pick of 20 or more different tables you can join. So how do you decide which is the “right” table?

The list of tables in the poker lobby at most poker sites gives you specific details about each table. You can usually find out how many players have been at each table, how long the table has been filled, the size of the players’ stacks at each table, average pot size, the percentage of players seeing the flop and more.

As a rule of thumb, a table at which most players have small stacks and at which a large majority of players are seeing the flop will have more non-skilled players than a table with huge stacks. You’ll want to choose this table. If you are looking for a table of aggressive players then choose one with a large average pot size. However, be prepared for a challenge! If you are a great heads up player then try starting your own game. As soon as one more player joins you you’ll have the opportunity to show off your heads up skills.

Remember as well that you can usually enter a room and watch before you sit down to play. Size up the competition and decide whether or not this is the table for you.

Choosing the Best Seat at the Poker Table

Thursday, November 5th, 2009

If you make your decision about where to sit at the poker table based on the seat’s proximity to the snacks or the bathroom then you have a thing or two to learn about poker strategy. In my experience, the right seat at the poker table can make all the difference when it comes to winning.

In order to effectively choose the best seat at the poker table you need to have a general idea about what type of poker players the people playing with you are. If you are playing online then watch a few rounds before you sit down at the table to determine who the aggressive players are and who are the more conservative players. If you play on a regular basis with a group of poker buddies you should get to know their playing styles pretty quickly.

When you choose your seat at the poker table you want to try to put the aggressive players on your right. This way you can act after these players, opening up more raises and re-raises for yourself. If an aggressive player is seated to your left then you will be forced to play more conservatively, as you don’t know what move they are going to make after you and you could wind up losing more money.

The next time you are getting ready to sit down at the poker table, stop, observe the situation, and try to choose the best seat to optimize your winnings.