Are You Successful at Playing Poker?

As one who is not really a poker player, I have read a few articles that give an answer to this all important question. Most say yes, you can make money playing poker. However, it is not as easy as you may think. While there are a myriad of poker players online, as well as those who enter poker tournaments, it takes strategy; knowledge; and keeping accurate records as to what games you win on a consistent basis as well as those games that garner losses. Poker is a game of skill and requires one to learn all the strategies of the game. The more you play, the more you will learn and thus apply that learning experience to the game.

Lower Stake Games vs. Higher Stake Games

According to one article, there is a misconception that a new poker player usually makes. That is, one can make more money playing high stake games at the outset. The truth is that there are a very small number of players that can achieve this feat. Unless you start out with the skills needed to win in high stake games, you really don't have a chance. As with anything new that one tries, it is better to begin at the lower stake games so that you become accustomed to how the game is played, learn from your mistakes, and grow gradually into the world of high stake games. Another common mistake is that a player who is betting one or two dollars and seems to win on a consistent basis thinks that he or she is ready for the high stakes table. Unfortunately it doesn't work that way.

Poker requires you to be Realistic

Poker stakes are not all the same. Nor can you win at the same rate in one category as you may in another. If you've seen or have been part of the WSOP, you know that those competing in tournaments are pros. Therefore, in order to have a chance to play with these professionals, you can't simply sit down and play. You need experience, clarity, strategy, and yes - the ability to know when to hold and when to fold. Because poker games are highly intense in nature, merely believing that you have the know how to compete is very different than actually playing and winning.

Is Winning at Poker Guaranteed?

Nothing in this life is guaranteed. As stated earlier, it takes a certain amount of skill to win at poker. These skills require you to practice; research; and obtain the wherewithal to know everything you possibly can about the game. Observing other players is also important. But knowing yourself is the key. Once you build up the confidence and skill to play even at the lowest level will determine how high you can go.