As a new player to the game of poker, you will soon come to realize that learning the game is a lot about trial and error. However, there are some errors that beginner players tend to repeat over and over again and if you learn to identify them, you will know what to avoid, thus saving yourself some hard earned cash in the process.

Here are a few do’s and don’ts to help you avoid those common beginner mistakes:

Don’t Play Above your Bankroll
While poker is an exciting and titillating game, you should not rush off and play without a care in the world. Before you hit the poker tables, decide how much money you have to play with, how much you can truly afford to lose and at what point you will stop playing. The difference between a good poker player and a bad one is the ability to keep control of their poker bankroll. Also, avoid poker tables where the stakes are too high for the size of your bankroll.

Do Use Pot Odds
While learning pot odds may seem complicated in the beginning, it is really worth learning this concept and applying it to your game session. New players who don’t understand pot odds regularly call too much. It is very good idea to learn how to calculate pot odds, or at least use a pot odds calculator.

Don’t Become Emotional at the Table
More seasoned players prey on beginners who have not yet learned to keep their emotions under control at the poker table. Players experiencing a bad beat should accept it as part of the gaming process. It doesn’t help to lash out, curse or throw your cards. Use every poker game as a practice session to keep your emotions in check and you’ll soon be bluffing your way to the bank!

Do Avoid Myths and Superstitions
Every gambling pastime has some form of myth or superstition attached to it. However, especially as a new player, you need to distinguish between good poker tips and silly myths. While poker is largely a game of skill, there is also the luck factor and nothing you do (or don’t do) will change the luck. Concentrate on learning the game and playing well. Nothing else will improve your chances of winning.

Don’t Imitate Other Players
While many feel that there is nothing wrong in emulating their favorite poker player, this could turn out to be a bad thing in the end. You want to develop your own personal poker style and that involves concentrating on your own game first and foremost. It is tempting to think that if you play like this year’s WSOP winner, we’ll turn out just like them, but the truth is that only hard work and a true sense of personal style got that winner there in the first place!

Do Remember your Manners
Poker is a social game, whether played online or around a physical table. Take some time to read up on common poker etiquette in order to avoid some common beginner mistakes that include calling and raising in the wrong way, using foul language, abuse of the chat features and other unacceptable forms of behavior that will only irritate other players.