Be Patient
It's tempting as a poker beginner to assume that if you have two good cards in your hand, you should be betting. This is true in most situations, but it is important not to get carried away.
If you have a suspicion that someone else has a very good hand - for example, if they are betting very heavily early on in the hand - then don't be drawn into calling a large bet, just because you've drawn a pair of Jacks. At least wait until you can see the flop, and you'll have a better idea.
Equally, don't be afraid to fold before the flop and forego playing a hand - it will save you a lot of chips in the long run. Just because you've drawn one picture card, don't assume that you've got a chance of winning the hand - you might find yourself paying the blinds (the compulsory pre-flop bets that are passed around between players to discourage defensive play) for numerous hands, only to find that after the flop, you've still got nothing.
Don't Be Scared To Bet
Despite the need to ensure that you're not wasting your money betting on what you don't yet have, it is important that if you do already have something, you aren't afraid to make the most of it. If, for example, your draw pocket Kings in your hand, then don't hesitate to raise the stakes before the flop comes down if you're feeling brave. If you're a beginner, the more experienced player will often think he can outplay you and take your chips - this is where you can win big.
Likewise, if all five cards have been drawn and you're confident that you have the best hand - for example, your pair of Kings is supplemented by a pair of tens in the flop and another King on the turn, you know that it's very, very unlikely anyone else has a better hand, especially if the two remaining cards are lower than a ten.
In this situation, don't be afraid to bet big, as you know that it's unlikely that you'll lose the hand. Even if other players don't call your bet, you'll still win whatever is already in the pot, and it's important to show the more experienced players that you know what you're doing.
Enjoy It!
If you're playing poker for social reasons, the most important thing to remember is exactly that - that if you're not playing for big money, and you've only staked an amount you're willing to give up, then a game of poker is a great social experience that can be really enjoyable.
Even if you're an absolute beginner, you can still hold your own long enough to have some fun with more experienced players, just by following the guidelines you've heard about here.
If you missed the first part of this guide, you can go back to Poker Tips For Beginners: Part One.
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