Poker Strategy: Beginner Poker

Basic strategy concepts to teach new players how to play poker.

Whether you’re new to poker, a beginner player looking to sharpen your skills, or just new to FlopTurnRiver.com, this beginner’s section will get you acquainted with all of the above. Poker is different from other forms of casino gambling games because you play against the other players, not the house. The house takes a rake out of every pot, and that’s how they make their money. They couldn’t care less how each player plays their hand or how much each player wins or loses. Out of this unique structure, strategy is born. If you make fewer mistakes than your opponents, over the long run, you will make money. It’s as simple as that.

If you’re new, everything may seem overwhelming. But the best way to approach becoming a poker shark is to take it one step and one hand at a time. Browse all of our beginner poker strategy articles below, or signup for our poker forum and introduce yourself in the Beginners Circle. There are many winning players who are willing to give you advice to help plug your leaks and improve your game. Poker is a game of skill, anyone can get lucky in one hand or session. But it takes the people who become students of the game to become a consistent winner. Start your poker education now!




NLHE Foundations #01: Introduction to Hold’em Ranges

An Introduction to Game Theory in Poker

A reader-friendly, easy to understand explanation of game theory and its applications in poker. Explaining the differences between theoretical terms such as strategy, strategic options, domination and exploitation, the article teaches players how to use these principles to maximize their winnings.
The Proven Best Poker Training Books of All Time

Apply Yourself at Learning Poker

Whenever you read poker strategy guides or books, you must be prepared to study them carefully. Merely skimming the contents will not advance your game very much at all. You should always consider the strategic implications of anything you read to get the maximum value from it.
The Proven Best Poker Training Books of All Time

Should You Multi-Table?

explores the pros and cons of multi-tabling in poker, suggesting that while it can increase earnings, it's not suitable for everyone and may depend on individual skills, the competitive landscape, and the ability to adapt to faster gameplay
In the Trenches: Winning at Low-Limit Poker

How the Games Have Changed

the evolution of online poker since the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2006, highlighting how the games have become more challenging due to an educated player base, the rise of multi-tabling, and the increased use of aggressive strategies
The Value of a Bankroll

When the Game is Good……

When things are good at the table, you are winning money hand-over-fist! The key to keeping this rush or lucky streak going is to keep playing for as long as possible! Don’t set an end-time or pre-set a certain amount of winnings that will trigger the end of your session – just keep grinding!
Online Poker Multi-Tabling Strategy

Comfort Zone

We've all fallen prey to the common ills of online poker – playing while you're too tired, playing for too many hours, forgoing meals or hydration, or sitting at the table with too many thoughts swimming in our heads. Here are a few simple tips that are guaranteed to make you feel better at the digital felt.