First of all...start with the basics. One of the most important decisions you make when playing hold'em is what cards to play, and when. In fact, it is so important, that it's impossible to win consistantly if you don't know the right cards to call or raise with.

Also, you need to know what certain bets represent. This is part of what we call "ABC Poker". In other words...common, logical bets by average (or better) players. For example, people tend to raise with pocket Kings. They tend to just limp with 6,7 suited.

However, even the best can't play all hands at all times. In fact, most people are playing a lot of hands if they play even 25% of what is dealt to them. So, we are going to cover exactly what hands, from what positions, under what conditions, are the most profitable.

Furthermore, you need to know what hands and positions are commonly played in what way, and by what players.

Use the links below to read up on the best hands to play preflop, and some of the more common betting patterns for preflop play.

Section 1:

Starting Hands

Section 2:

Preflop Hand reading