The status of Texas Hold’em as the world’s favorite variety of poker has been confirmed the world over. Top tournaments are televised, some of the game’s most charismatic players household names – sometimes it seems that everyone on the street not only knows the basic rules, but the basics of strategy as well!
The sad truth, though, is that the fine points of Hold’em strategy are woefully misunderstood. One of the most crucial, and least understood elements is proper pre-flop strategy.
Decisions at this phase of the game often get short shrift…
…they don’t usually make the TV highlight reel, and lack the drama of a final card reveal.
Nonetheless, they often make the difference between a winning and losing session.
Though this will be especially important to beginners, players of all experience levels should know that there’s always more to learn about poker. Especially if they’re serious about winning.
Some key elements of smart tactics before the communal cards have come out: