Poker etiquette is no joke. Enthusiasts would tell you that poker is not just a game, but a way of life. And, just as in real life we stick to a certain code of behavior, when playing, there are certain behavioral rules to keep in mind. Following proper poker etiquette not only makes us more pleasant players, but also allows us to concentrate on the game and better dominate difficult situations.

 

A player who keeps violating commonly known poker etiquette and repeatedly disrupts the game is either warned or removed from the room altogether. Although most online poker rooms are less strict when it comes to poker etiquette because the players are not physically gathered in the same room, traditional casinos usually have zero tolerance for etiquette violation. Even online, any form of harassement or spamming of the chat feature is not tolerated.

Check out the following list of poker etiquette do's and don'ts. These moves are considered improper behavior and can eventually serve as grounds for expulsion from a particular room:

1. Purposefully stalling the betting action - You need to make your moves at a reasonable speed. Slow playing, unless it's your winning strategy, makes the game less exciting and your opponents more irritated.

2. Cursing out loud - There is no need to be rude to people, whether it's your opponents or the dealer. If you keep cursing, the management would have no other choice but to kick you out of the gaming facility.

3. Giving advice to your opponents - Let other people make their own decisions. Keep your opinion to yourself. It is highly unacceptable to make comments regarding others' style of play. It is not only distracting, but also very annoying. You can however tell a player they made a nice move after they win for instance.

4. Intentionally acting out of turn - You can only make a move when your turn comes. Otherwise, you are deliberately interfering with the game's course and begging the casino to remove you from the table.

5. Splashing your chips into the pot - Be polite. Throwing your chips into the pot is impolite because it makes it difficult for your opponents and the dealer to see what your bet is. You should always stack your chips neatly.

6. Leaving the table when it's your turn to act as one of the blinds - That's the worst move you could make. It is ultra inappropriate to intentionally use this tactic in order to avoid paying your blind. Such behavior is also grounds for expulsion.

7. Eating at the poker table - Most traditional poker rooms do not allow food on the gaming floor. However, if you're playing at home and your opponents are actually your friends, do whatever you want as long as it doesn't bother anyone. Of course this tip on poker etiquette does not apply if you are playing online.

8. Exposing your cards midgame - It's simply a don't! Do we really need to explain?

9. Hitting on other players, male or female - In general, although a casino is not a 'singles' club, it is a great place to meet people. However, we recommend that you wait until after the game to ask the other person for his or her telephone number.

10. Destroying casino property - You will not only get yourself kicked out of the venue, but you will also pay for the damage you caused. Trust us when we tell you that it's not a cozy feeling. To avoid such an unpleasant experience just behave yourself. We also recommend this at your house because you really don't want to break a chair, computer or worse!

Poker etiquette is an acquired skill, be respectful and you will be respected, or you could always have security handle someone who is not!