More No Limit Texas Holdem Tips
Need some help with your no-limit game? Here are a few quick tips that can instantly improve your chances of winning those huge pots.
Muck Stealing the Blinds.
Stealing the blinds is woefully overrated. Why are people dying to steal small blinds? Just because you're on the button, it doesn't mean you have to make a steal. They are all expecting you to raise from the button anyway. If you're holding junk, just drop it.
Beware of the Big Bets.
In Limit Holdem, it is harder to read through bets. But when you see someone raise 5-6 times the big blind or even all-in in No Limit, you should credit them with at least a very good hand. One exception to this is it is a call from a big stack, made just to keep someone "honest." In general, you should not call a big bet unless you have a premium hand. There will be other chances to win later.
Put the Bluffing in Its Place.
Bluffing works in No Limit Holdem especially if you can afford big bets ad raises. But even then you should not bluff too often. Bluff selectively. A good time to bluff is when you have a sure read on your opponent, or are heads up and you feel you can bully them out of the pot.
Do not bluff if there at a full table. You will almost certainly be called. Further, do not bluff online. Bluffing online is just like bluffing a calling station. People are apt to call bets more often online since play is faster then.
Know What's in the Pot.
It's amazing how people can play without knowing what's in the pot. Before you call that bet, look at your hand and then look at the pot. If you're uncertain about your hand and the last street did not improve it, it is better to fold. Stay in the game only if the pot size justifies it.
Hit and Run.
This is useful if you play tight/passive. TP players do badly in No Limit Holdem once they are read. They win at first but when others realize how tight they are, they will fold whenever the rock plays. But if you hop from one poker table to another after ever big win, you will not be discovered so quickly. Be a roaming bandit in the world of online poker. After winning a big pot, throw in a bet and then fold and leave the table.
Note that this strategy prohibits making close friends during the game. If you want to socialize, do that at the blackjack or baccarat tables. Making friends often means wanting to soft play them. You're here for business, nothing personal.
