While poker has set rules, there are some general unwritten rules that one must also consider when playing poker. These guidlines are generally accepted by anone who plays poker, and should be followed so that the game will be enjoyable for everyone. Nothing is worse than having a juicy game ruled, because one player didn’t know how to properly conduct themselves.

 #1 – Don’t tap the fishbowl.

Never insult a bad poker player for playing like a donkey. You should never let a bad player know that they made a bad play. If a bad player gets lucky and sucks out, don’t let your anger get the best of you. Berating a player for making a bad play won’t change the fact that you lost, and may cause them to focus on playing sharper.

If anything, all it does is make the game not very enjoyable or friendly. You want the bad players to have fun and keep playing as long as you can.

Do not insult bad players!

 #2 – Don’t swear or verbally abuse players.

This goes along with tip #1. Verbally abusing someone accomplishes nothing, and may cause players to leave the table. Conversely, most casinos and poker sites frown on this conduct, and it can get you removed from the game, or cause you to lose your chat privileges if you’re playing online. 

#3 – Don’t coach another player.

Don’t ever give advice to another player in the middle of a hand they are in. If you were in a hand, and knew you had your opponent beat, you wouldn’t want someone else trying to convince them to fold.

#4 – Never give out information on the cards you folded.

If you fold before the flop is dealt, and the flop would have given you a good hand, don’t show a reaction or talk about your cards. It’s perfectly acceptable to talk about your cards after the hand is finished, but if you give any indication of your hand before the hand is over, it can affect the players in the hand.

#5 – Pay attention.

If you’re in a hand, pay attention to what is happening. There’s nothing worse than having to repeat what’s happened prior to a players turn, just because they weren’t paying attention. This can slow the game down, and frustrate the other players.

#6 – Never Slow-roll a player.

Slow-rolling is considered very poor conduct. If you’re absolutely sure you have the best hand, and already know you’re going to call any bet, do so in a timely manner. Delaying a call you know you’re going to make is poor play, and can be considered rude.

While it may sometimes be tempting to slow-roll a player you dislike, it’s best to avoid the temptation. Not only can you anger your opponent, this may cause them to focus more on trying to beat you.