Etiquette for Poker – Dos And Don’ts
Posted on 27. Dec, 2008 by admin in Poker
Poker may not always be seen as a gentleman’s game, but regardless there is an etiquette that needs to be followed when playing poker, whether live or virtually.
Make sure you are always polite with other players and the dealer. There is no need to call anyone names or badmouth people if you are losing - or even winning. When discarding your cards, make sure that you don’t throw them on the table. Put them down respectfully and quietly. Do not eat at the table, and never place your drink on the table if you are having one. If you are smoking, make sure you don’t place the cigarette or cigar on the table as the ash will get on the table and the cards, thereby causing discomfort to some. Make sure you don’t blow smoke in other players’ direction as this is rude.
If you are winning, you should give a tip to the dealer. This shows respect - and furthermore the dealer will appreciate it as they usually receive low wages. Never swear at the table, whether you are playing live or virtually, as this is rude and may offend someone. When you want to take a break, do so only when you are not in the small or large blind, as not being at the table will mean that not only will the chips be taken from your stack, but you will also not be able to play the hand.
Don’t turn over another players’ discarded cards as this is considered taboo. Even when playing online, you should never ask another player to tell you what cards they were dealing in the last hand. Do not try to educate other players about the game, as chances are that they already know, and will thus feel offended. If you want to point out something, do it after the game is over - and that too in a non-patronizing manner.