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I hate Texas holdem! It violates all the traditions of old-time poker, when guys sat around the table and bet on each of cards as it was dealt to each player. Now, this new variation of the old spit in the ocean poker game gives the most advantage not to the player with the most guts, but the one with the most money to bet.

Therefore, the first rule of Texas holdem is to bring lots of money to the table with you, and be prepared to toss a lot of it into the pots for betting and bluffing. Otherwise, if you're thrifty and hesitant, the sharks will eat you alive.

Obviously, the best hand to get in Texas holdem starts with two aces, which are dealt down. To protect yourself, do not move them in any way to expose their value to anyone else present, including the dealer or any kibbitzers who may be hovering around the table. Additionally, do not show by expression or reaction that you're pleased with the valuable starting of your hand.

With the two aces, and knowing no other player has a better hand, bet 'em hard. It isn't likely anyone is going to overtake you and win the hand, so control the betting as each up card hits the table and becomes part of every player's hand. If you're lucky sitting on your two aces, there will be others at the table with fairly good hands, and they'll have to stay in with you and match your bets. Your job isn't necessarily to scare them out, but more craftily, to suck them in. But, as you gain experience, always follow the Kenny Rogers song's advice:

You got to know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em,
Know when to walk away and know when to run.
You never count your money when you're sittin' at the table.
Therell be time enough for countin' when the dealin's done.

Learn more about this author, Ted Sherman.
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