There is no greater game than poker. It's fun, exciting and only the best survive. While Texas Hold'em is relatively easy to understand, it is hard to become a successful player. The competition is tough, the players are ruthless and at some point you will want to throw in the towel. But hang in there. You can learn this game and beat your opponents.

The first rule you need to understand is poker players play to win - it isn't just a recreational game for recreational players any longer. You need to ask yourself what your goals are in poker. Do you want to play for fun? Do you want to play professionally for money?

You need to adopt a money management system that you will adhere to every gambling day of your life. Set a win goal and a loss limit, otherwise your money management techniques quickly become distorted. Money management and patience will take you a very long way in poker.

Find your level of comfort, whether it's the £50.00 tournament or is the £10.00 buy in. You may want to consider the higher the buy in, the more likely you are to find serious poker players.

Take a peek at different poker rooms too. If you have more success in a particular room then stick with it until you are ready to advance to the next level.

Most importantly, if you are going to play poker, read everything you can on the subject and become as familiar as you can with the game.

Practice as much as you can using the free money chips and play the free to enter tournaments to give you practice within an online environment. Then pick your game, turn off the chat and play to win.

About the author:

David Walker runs free bets and UK poker websites. A free email course: "Seven Days to Better Betting" is available at both of these websites.