Etiquette is the name of the game whether it is at a casino, arena or a sports ground, and poker is no exception to the rule. Jena Phillips and Shaun Harris who were chosen to deal at the WSOP Main Event have a tale to tell having observed both the experienced and the amateur players. They declare that the amateurs are always willing to learn and are apologetic; it’s the professionals that do things that tend to put the others off! So do keep the following poker game rules of etiquette in mind the next time you are at a poker table!

1. Splashing the pot may happen accidentally but not all the time that would make it obvious that you are doing it on purpose, and may even give the impression that you are rude.
2. Eating at the table should be avoided however since the game goes on for hours you might get hungry, then remember to choose the right food and carry a napkin. The choice of food is imperative as oily food messes the cards and chips, opt for foods where you can use a fork or a spoon perhaps!
3. Making String bets is okay at times but it is always advisable to push your chips onto the table at one shot, because playing against the rules can also cost you dearly.
4. Grabbing the chips after you win a pot is a huge no-no! It’s believed that the players who go for the grab are usually those who are used to playing online extensively and they don’t know any better.
5. Showing your cards is not really advisable though not against the rules but still should not be encouraged.
6. Excessive table talk, cell phone usage and being abusive to co-players is a major no-no and will not be entertained at any poker table
7. Not knowing when to act and when not to act could be due to your being distracted and this could land you into losing a game which maybe you could have won. It can irritate people if you aren’t into the game and cause delays. So it is important to stay focused.
8. Folding when you should actually be checking is another disadvantage on the part of a player as it has a major impact on the game as a whole, and should be avoided.
With all of the above in mind the next time you are at a poker table you would not only excel in your etiquette but also walk away with more moolah than you imagined!