A Beginner’s Guide for 2025

How to Get Good (or at Least Less Terrible) at Poker.

So, you want to play poker—maybe even win a few hands? Whether you’re completely new or just trying to stop losing so much, this guide will help you level up your game. Poker is part skill, part psychology, and yes, a little bit of luck. But with the right mindset and practice, you can stop making rookie mistakes and start playing smarter.

1. Get the Basics Down
Before you start pulling off epic bluffs, you need to understand the foundation of the game.
Learn the hand rankings. Knowing what beats what is essential. A full house is great, but it’s no match for a straight flush.
Pick your poker variation. Texas Hold’em is the most popular, but Omaha, Seven-Card Stud, and others have their own appeal. Start with Hold’em to build a strong base.

2. Start Small—Seriously
Jumping into high-stakes games right away is a great way to burn through your bankroll fast. Instead, start with low-stakes games. They’ll let you practice without the stress of losing big money.

3. Play Fewer Hands, But Play Them Aggressively
One of the biggest beginner mistakes is playing too many hands. Be selective—only play when you have a strong hand. And when you do play, be confident! Raising is often better than calling because it puts pressure on your opponents.

4. Pay Attention to Your Position
Where you sit at the table matters more than you think.
Late position (closer to the dealer button) is best because you see what everyone else does before making your move.
Early position is trickier because you have to act first with little information. Play tighter here.

5. Read Your Opponents (Even Online)
Poker isn’t just about the cards—it’s about the players. Watch for patterns in their betting. Do they always bet big with a strong hand? Do they fold easily when pressured? Use this to your advantage.
Even in online games, you can spot trends. If someone always raises preflop but folds to reraises, you’ve found a weakness to exploit.

6. Don’t Blow Your Bankroll
A good poker player knows how to manage their money. Set a budget before you play, and never chase losses. If you’re on a bad streak, step away—don’t let emotions take over.

7. Keep Learning & Improving
Poker is constantly evolving, so stay sharp by:
Watching poker strategy videos.
Reading books or blogs from experienced players.
Reviewing your own hands to see where you went wrong.

8. Practice, Practice, Practice
The best way to improve? Play as much as you can. Try:
Online games for quick practice.

Live games for the real experience.
Friendly home games to test new strategies without pressure.

9. Stay Cool Under Pressure
Poker can be frustrating, but tilting (letting emotions cloud your judgment) will wreck your game. If you’re getting upset, take a break. A clear mind is a winning mind.

10. Join the Poker Community
The best way to improve is to learn from others. Join poker forums, watch games at a local casino, or talk strategy with experienced players. Surrounding yourself with better players will make you better, too.

Ready to Put Your Skills to the Test?

The best way to get better at poker is to play with real people—and there’s no better place than Capitol Casino. Whether you’re a total newbie or looking to fine-tune your strategy, our games and tournaments are the perfect place to learn. Plus, our friendly dealers and welcoming atmosphere make it easy to jump in.

So, what are you waiting for? Come down to Capitol Casino and start your poker journey today!