Bankroll Advice

1. Do not play with money you don’t have.
   Poker is a seductive game that will keep you entertained for a long time to come- whether you intend to play at a land based poker room, or online. Do not take the pleasure away from the gaming experience, by taking unnecessary risks.
2. Whilst still learning, do not play for high stakes with the big guns.
   Poker junkies can spot a newbie from a distance and they obviously can’t wait to take your money. Until such time that you are skilled enough to hold your ground against the more seasoned players, play at tables where the stakes aren’t too high.
3. Play tight
   Set limits for yourself, and then consistently bet according to that. Make sure they’re not too high, because you are still learning. Remember, if you cannot afford to lose it, you cannot afford to bet it.
   
4. Don’t expect to double your money immediately
   Everyone knows that when you commence playing poker for the first time, that you will lose some money first, before you start to make money. With a few exceptions, where some will have “beginners luck”, that is the rule. So prepare yourself for the fact that you might lose some at first. But regard that as a worthy investment to make, in a game that will become much more to you than just another hobby.
5. Don’t let other players determine the pace at which you bet
   Once you start flexing your poker muscle against other players, it is easy to get intimidated by your opponents to keep matching their bets. Don’t let yourself be bullied into big bets, unless you’re convinced that you have a winning hand. Focus only on your cards for now, and let your probability of winning only, determine what you should bet.