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What makes Poker so special?

Although poker had its origins in Europe, most people associate it with cowboys and riverboat gambling. Modern poker is popular whether its played for money or just for fun. In addition to the luck and skill associated with other card games, acting skills are important in poker. Even with a bad hand, a player can sometimes win by bluffing. The concentration required to calculate the odds of improving one’s hand (through drawing cards)--while keeping a poker face and interpreting other players’ expressions and body language--provides excellent mental stimulation.

The Seven Golden Rules of Poker:

The First Golden Rule of Poker

Maximize the size of the pots that you win; minimize the amount of your money in the pots that you lose.

The Second Golden Rule of Poker
When deciding whether or not to call, factor the amount of money being asked of you in relation to the amount of money in the pot.

The Third Golden Rule of Poker
Avoid playing too consistently; take note of the consistencies in your opponents.

The Fourth Golden Rule of Poker
Know the players at the table; adjust your playing style accordingly.

The Fifth Golden Rule of Poker
Be aware of tells in yourself; be aware of tells in others.

The Sixth Golden Rule of Poker
Utilize bluffing; bluff with the best-balanced frequency to maximize its usefulness.

The Seventh Golden Rule of Poker
Practice inexpensive advertising to create false impressions of your playing style.

The seven golden rules.." are published here with the permission of Mr. Marc Wortman from home poker strategies