Top Don'ts of Casino Poker Etiquette

Casino poker is a social game. Contrary to what it appears, poker not played for money. True, real money is used. But to make money is no and should not be one's primary objective. Most poker players do not make money from playing casino poker. They lose. But they play anyway because it is fun for them.

Now there are times when a player comes along who spoils the fun at the poker table. Read up on the top don'ts of casino poker etiquette in this article.

Casino Poker Etiquette - Don't show any reaction when you fold a hand and the flop connects.

For example, you fold a 3-2 suited and the flop showed cards of the same suit as your hand. Don't sigh, curse or otherwise show emotion. To do so would give away your hand and possibly spoil someone else's plans. If someone wanted to bluff that they have the cards you have, your behavior would ruin their bluff.

Casino Poker Etiquette - Don't talk about a hand when you are not in it.

When you are out of a hand, you are out of the hand. Stay quiet when you are not playing. Use the time to silently observe other players. Watch for tells. One advantage of being out of a hand is that you get to really focus on your opponents since you have no cards to study.

Casino Poker Etiquette - Don't show preferential treatment.

That is, do not show your cards to some players but not others. This would make the game unfair to the other players. You will either show your cards to all or show them to none. Also, avoid showing your cards to companions in the casino who are not playing. Their reaction - especially their facial expression - can give clues as to the kind of hand you have.

Casino Poker Etiquette - Don't be rude.

Show some class by not taking out your frustrations through cursing. Do not curse to either yourself, other players or the dealer. No one is responsible for your defeats except you and chance. On the other hand, if you win, do not gloat about it. Everyone gets dealt a good hand and you will not always win.

Casino Poker Etiquette - Don't trash talk during or after a hand.

Saying things like "I'll bet that was a bluff" or cheering "Woohoo!" after a great hand are both considered trash talk. In the first instance you are trying to get a reaction from the other player. In the second case you are bragging about a win. Whatever the reason it is better to just focus on the game. Trash talking is not only obnoxious; it can also give away tells without you realizing it. The less you say or do, the less you show.

Casino Poker Etiquette - Don't mishandle your cards.

That is, do not show them off during a hand and never remove them from view. Revealing your cards can spoil the deal. Hiding cards from view can cause others to think you folded and bet out of turn.

Casino Poker Etiquette - Don't bet out of turn.

Pay attention to the action even before it is your turn. Betting too soon could upset the game plan of some players as much action depends on what the next player's action will be.

Playing poker in the casino can be an enjoyable and relaxing social pastime. Just know what to do and more importantly, what NOT to do. Then you guarantee yourself and your fellow players a good time.