Tue, 01/18/2011 – 05:09 – PokerPages Staff

As a beginner poker player it is inherent that you learn to objectively evaluate your game play.  This requires that you apply your knowledge of the poker rules and betting strategy in a consistent manner.

Sklanksy’s Fundamental Theorem of Poker illustrates this concept:

Every time you play a hand differently from the way you would have played it if you could see all your opponents’ cards, they gain; and every time you play your hand the same way you would have played it if you could see all their cards, they lose.  Conversely, every time opponents play their hands differently from the way they would have if they could see all your cards, you gain; and every time they play their hands the same way they would have played if they could see all your cards, you lose.

In short, Sklansky is stating that consistent game play is the key to success at poker.  By altering our game play from situation to situation, we lose.  If we play consistently, we win. 

Through self-evaluation, the beginner can begin to identify their mistakes.  The goal is not whether the play resulted in a win, but what would have been the best play.  By continually evaluating your play, you develop consistency in the game.  In the end, the consistent play will lend to long-term success.

To learn more, check out PokerSchoolOnline, the best source on the internet for poker related learning.  Then put those skills to work by playing free at PokerStars.net.  Also, check out the PokerPages sections Poker Information and Poker Articles for more poker tips and strategies.