One of the most easiest ways to read hands is to find out what your opponent’s actions mean. For example, you see that every time he checks at the flop he has a mediocre hand. But don’t forget that he can change his style.

Why should you evaluate a game? Why not just jump in with both feet and play? Well there are more issues here than what guy will take the last piece of pizza and who takes too many potty breaks. When evaluating a game...

By Longhand Limit Hold’em we mean a game with 8 or more players. It’s not like Shorthand game. The main difference is that you have to be more patient than in Shorthand games.

Shorthand game is a game with tables of 6 or even less people. It is rather specific kind of game and it's not for passive players. When choosing a game to take part in - look for limpers. It will be a good game for you.

You should use a gamer tag, aka ‘handle,’ that doesn't reveal who you are. Don't call yourself "Mike_in_Fairbrook." Try something like "Super_M" or "#1_Poker_Fan."

Don't give out your real name, age, or phone number, and don't tell anyone where you live. And while you're at it, don't give out anyone else's personal information either. There's plenty to talk about without answering those kinds of questions. If you think you know the person asking you the question, tell them you'll talk to them about it next time you see them.

If you play against other people and they get out of hand, tell them to stop. If they don't, block them if you can. You can also tell the game operator about them and no one will know it was you who told. Look at it this way: you're probably doing everyone in the game a big favor by getting rid of the jerk.

If someone really makes you feel uncomfortable—if he or she is creepy or won't stop bugging you, or asking where you live—take a minute and write down some notes about the person. Make sure you spell their gamer tag exactly as they spell it. Also, jot down the date and time, others who were in the chat, and how many times you told them to stop. If you know how it’s done, save your chat window in a text file. Make sure the game operators know.

No one needs to know the credit card number you use to pay for the game. If the people who run the poker site didn't have it, you wouldn't be playing.