How Algorithms Maintain a Fair Gambling Environment

Have you ever wondered what purpose betting syndicates have? Well, they are groups of individuals, often with diverse expertise, who come together to pool financial resources and knowledge to place strategic bets, predominantly in sports.  We aim to discover how they function, provide some famous examples, and investigate the significant impact they have on the global betting arena. What Are Betting Syndicates All About? Betting syndicates have a distinct approach to gambling, diverging significantly from the traditional betting style. They are organized groups, often consisting of seasoned bettors with much more sports expertise than regular sports betting enthusiasts. Unlike individual bettors or the general betting public, who often bet based on personal preference or intuition, syndicates employ a more calculated and strategic approach. They leverage collective knowledge, statistical analysis, and substantial pooled funds to place big bets. This collaborative model allows them to bet with a level of sophistication and urgency that's typically beyond the reach of an average bettor. The size and scope of these organizations vary widely. Some betting syndicates are small, informal groups of friends or acquaintances sharing insights and funds to bet on local sports events.  On the other end of the spectrum, there are large, highly organized syndicates that operate almost like businesses. They may employ teams of professionals, including statisticians, analysts, and betting experts, and often engage in international betting markets. They are known for their disciplined approach to betting, utilizing advanced statistical models and algorithms to make informed decisions. The larger the syndicate, the greater its ability to find better odds and influence betting lines. The formation of gambling syndicates is primarily driven by the desire to maximize profit and minimize risk. By pooling resources, members can place larger bets than they could individually, potentially leading to higher returns. Additionally, a syndicate's collective wisdom and diverse expertise can lead to more informed and strategic betting decisions. Objectives vary, but they typically include seeking consistent long-term profits, quickly exploiting inefficiencies in betting markets, and managing risk through diversification of bets. Inside the Strategies of Betting Syndicates Sports betting syndicates are renowned for their sophisticated methods of gaining an edge in the competitive world of sports betting. At the heart of these strategies is the use of technology and data analysis. Syndicates often employ advanced statistical models, algorithms, and data analytics tools to analyze vast amounts of information.  This data can range from historical performance statistics of teams and players to weather conditions and even psychological profiles of athletes. By dissecting such information, they can identify patterns and trends that are not immediately apparent to the average bettor or bookmaker. The technological aspect of these syndicates is usually state-of-the-art. Many have custom-built software and databases designed to process and analyze sports data efficiently. The use of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms is becoming increasingly common, enabling syndicates to refine their predictive models based on new data. This constant evolution of their analytical tools ensures that they stay one step ahead in the ever-changing landscape of sports betting. Another crucial aspect of their operation is maintaining an edge over bookmakers. Syndicates must constantly adapt their strategies to stay ahead, as bookmakers themselves use sophisticated algorithms to set and adjust odds. To avoid detection and keep bookmakers from adjusting the odds unfavorably, syndicates often place bets with urgency through multiple accounts and use a network of individuals to spread their bets across various bookies.  Are Betting Syndicates Legal? It has to be noted that betting syndicates often operate in a complex legal and ethical landscape. While the core concept of a betting syndicate is legal in many jurisdictions, certain practices can push these syndicates into legally questionable territory. One such practice is the employment of insiders within sports organizations or horse racing teams to gain exclusive, real-time information. This is perceived as illegal because it can involve the misuse of privileged information, potentially leading to unfair advantages and manipulation of betting markets. Furthermore, when syndicates engage in activities like match-fixing or manipulating event outcomes, they cross a clear legal boundary. Such actions violate the sport's integrity and contravene laws in many countries that regulate fair play and gambling. Despite these concerns, most betting syndicates operate within the boundaries of law and regulation. They focus on leveraging collective knowledge and strategies to place bets rather than resorting to unethical or illegal means to gain an edge. Why Betting Syndicates Have an Edge in Sports Betting Betting syndicates offer a range of advantages that set them apart from individual betting strategies. These benefits stem from their collaborative approach, strategic planning, and use of technology. Below, we break down these advantages into key areas. Enhanced Financial Power The pooling of resources in a betting syndicate allows for greater financial leverage, enabling the placement of larger bets than what individual members could manage on their own. This collective financial power can potentially lead to significantly higher returns than individual betting. Additionally, betting syndicates excel in distributing risk. By spreading bets across a variety of events and outcomes, they can effectively mitigate individual losses, a feat that's much more challenging for solo bettors. Better Insight Through Analytics Gambling syndicates typically employ sophisticated data analytics tools, using advanced statistical models and algorithms to make decisions. This analytical approach provides a more data-driven and objective basis for predicting sports outcomes. Furthermore, the utilization of cutting-edge technology, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, enables syndicates to refine and adapt their betting strategies based on new data and trends. Strategic Advantages Professional betting syndicates can sometimes influence betting markets, occasionally creating more favorable odds for themselves. Moreover, these groups often employ strategies such as placing bets in a manner that avoids detection by bookmakers. This not only helps in preserving advantageous odds but also maintains a level of anonymity, which is crucial in the competitive betting landscape. Sights on Long-Term Winnings Syndicates generally adopt a long-term approach, prioritizing sustained profitability over immediate gains. This is in contrast to the often short-term perspective of individual bettors. The combination of pooled resources, collective expertise, and strategic planning contributes to a more consistent and stable performance over time. Notable Betting Syndicates The world of sports betting has seen its fair share of famous and sometimes notorious betting syndicates. These groups have made headlines for their significant successes, strategic brilliance, and, occasionally, involvement in scandals. Here's a look at some of the most notable betting syndicates in history and their journey to fame or infamy. Billy Walters and The Computer Group One of the most renowned sports bettors of all time is Billy Walters. Walters and his team were known for their incredibly sophisticated analysis and betting strategies. They had a string of successes, particularly in Las Vegas, making millions of dollars through syndicate sports betting. Walters was so influential that his bets could single-handedly shift the betting lines. However, his career also involved legal controversies, including a conviction for insider trading, showcasing the fine line that betting syndicates often walk. He joined a syndicate known as The Computer Group in the 1980s. This group, led by Michael Kent, a former NASA engineer, and renowned bettor Bill Benter, used computer algorithms for the first time in the history of betting. Their approach revolutionized sports betting. They were able to predict race outcomes with remarkable accuracy and establish handicaps for basketball games, earning millions and changing the betting landscape forever. Zeljko Ranogajec and The Punters Club Another notable example is the Australian-based Zeljko Ranogajec syndicate—The Punters Club. Known for their extraordinary secrecy and efficiency, they were investigated multiple times by the Australian tax authorities, but their winnings could not be seized. Ranogajec, dubbed "The Joker," is thought to be one of the world's biggest gamblers and best blackjack players, with his syndicate handling billions of dollars in bets annually. Their operations extend across continents, influencing betting markets globally. Tony Bloom's Private Betting Syndicate Lastly, the Hong Kong-based syndicate led by Tony Bloom stands out. Bloom, also the owner of Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club, is known for his mathematical approach to betting. His elite betting syndicate, Starlizard, is described more as a betting consultancy, providing betting advice and strategies. The group is known for its low-risk, high-reward approach, making substantial profits over the years. Bloom is also a great poker player and has earned millions in poker tournaments throughout the years. The Impact of Betting Syndicates on the Gambling Industry Betting syndicates have a profound impact on the gambling industry, significantly influencing odds and betting markets. Their substantial financial power and strategic betting practices often lead to shifts in betting lines at online sportsbooks. This can create a more dynamic and sometimes unpredictable betting environment. From a legal and ethical standpoint, betting syndicates often raise questions. While they operate within the confines of the law in many jurisdictions, their influence on the betting market sometimes leads to regulatory scrutiny and debates over the fairness of their practices. Furthermore, betting syndicates can indirectly influence sporting events. Their large-scale bets can sometimes affect how people see teams and players, adding a layer of complexity to sports events themselves. Although there's no direct manipulation of sports outcomes, a psychological impact can't be overlooked. There's no denying that betting syndicates are a force to be reckoned with in the gambling industry. Their ability to analyze, predict, and influence betting markets is unparalleled. However, with great power comes great responsibility to stay within legal and ethical limits.

Betting bots are automated software programs that place bets on users' behalf, primarily in sports betting and other events, but also in casino games. They crunch numbers, predict outcomes, and place bets without you needing to lift a finger.  In this article, we'll unravel how these bots work, question their legality, and discuss the advantages and potential pitfalls of letting them work for you. We'll also look ahead to see how these automated allies might change the gambling scene. How Betting Bots Make Your Bets Betting bots streamline your gambling by automatically placing bets based on algorithms. You set them up with your strategy, and off they go, using APIs to connect directly to sports betting sites and casino platforms.  You'll find different types of betting and casino bots out there, from those you can use for free to premium versions that come with a price tag. These bots sift through data, make quick decisions, and place bets for you.  For example, scrape bots in sports betting comb through various sportsbooks to gather odds and betting insights. You may also encounter poker bots in online card rooms, as well as other casino bots across various games, particularly multiplayer ones. Imagine leaving for work, and your bot checks the odds and calculates the best moves for your maximum profit. This brings about the question, if these bots makes betting and winning so easy, are they legal within the online casino and sportsbook framework?  Are Betting Bots Legal? The legality of betting bots walks a fine line. While not outright illegal, the best online casinos and sportsbooks explicitly ban them in their terms. The gambling community largely views them as unfair, given their potential to skew winnings. In fact, the use of betting bots in recent years has given rise to dedicated teams and practices to pick up on the use and for the most part, misuse, of bots. To detect betting bots, gambling operators look for unusual activity and patterns in how games are played, as well as connections between accounts and the technology behind them. They strengthen defenses with AML and KYC procedures, including biometric verifications, to ensure that only legitimate players have access.  While the majority of online gambling sites stipulate their rules regarding the use of bots, some sites omit this. It is also important to note that the legality of betting bot usage will also differ from one jurisdiction to the next, so it is important to be aware of what the law in your region stipulates. In terms of legality, lawmakers’ biggest concern is the exploitation of other players and fraud that could be committed thanks to these bots. When all is said and done if a gambler acts within the law and the rules of the online casino or bookie, there should be no reason not to consider using bots. Next, we highlight some of the benefits and possible drawbacks of using bots to gamble with online. The Benefits of Automating Your Bets Bots provide a level of precision, speed, and intelligence that traditional betting methods can't match, from making quick decisions to customizing your betting strategy. Let's break down the tangible benefits these tools bring to the table. Quick Bet Placement? Imagine making bets across dozens of games in the blink of an eye. Using bots does just that, thanks to advanced algorithms that analyze odds and place bets instantly. That way, you will never miss out on favorable odds due to delays, which significantly increases your activity and presence across multiple betting platforms without additional effort on your part. Informed Decision-Making While human bettors may be swayed by emotions or popular opinion, betting bots are unbiased when it comes to data analysis. They sift through vast amounts of information, identifying patterns and making bets based on statistical evidence alone. This method eliminates the common pitfalls of emotional betting, paving the way for more rational and potentially profitable decisions. Customized Betting Experience Betting bots excel in adaptability, allowing you to tweak betting strategies to your needs. Whether setting limits on stakes, selecting bet types, or defining specific conditions for each wager, these bots act on your predefined rules. This means your betting strategy becomes a finely tuned engine, operating with precision to exploit the best opportunities as defined by your personal betting philosophy and risk assessment. The Flip Side of Gambling Bots While betting bots offer significant advantages, they come with a set of drawbacks. One major limitation is their dependency on preset parameters, which might not adapt quickly to sudden market changes or last-minute game developments. There's also the risk of security breaches. If a bot gets hacked, your betting account and funds can be compromised. Also, let's not forget the issue of betting bot software abusing welcome bonuses and promotions, unfairly taking advantage of offers intended for real players. Additionally, relying on bots can strip away the fun that comes with making personal betting decisions and watching those choices play out in real time. This automated approach might not appeal to all gamblers, especially those who value the excitement of the game as much as the potential winnings. Last but not least, given the contentious nature of betting bots and the legality of using them in some jurisdictions, you may find yourself in hot water for using them. Even though it may not be explicitly illegal in most jurisdictions, the majority of online casinos and bookies stipulate that the use of these bots can have your account disabled and you banned from using the site in their terms and conditions. So, before making that final call, it would be advisable to read through your online casino or sportsbook’s terms of use and familiarizing yourself with your region's laws regarding the use of betting bots. Gambling With the Help of Bots or Not? Betting bots have been stirring up the gambling industry over the past couple of years. For some gamblers, they promise a future in which bets are not only based on luck but also smart algorithms. They're intriguing for those looking to squeeze every ounce of advantage out of data. For regulatory bodies and online gambling platforms, however, they have the potential to pose a multitude of complications. Not only can betting bots increase room for fraudulent behavior, but also result in loss of income for both players and operators. We can't help but wonder if the majority of gamblers would want to trade hands-on wagering for automated precision and whether or not the use of betting bots will become a less contentious matter in the near future. In an industry that is constantly changing and adapting, we may see that operators and regulatory bodies adopt smart ways to regulate the use of betting bots, opening up the possibility of using them regardless. For now, however, first, check where your jurisdiction stands when it comes to betting bots. Next, read through the online casino or sportsbook’s terms of use, then decide whether or not relying on automated betting would take away or add to the overall gambling experience.

Yahtzee is a popular dice game that has been around since the 1950s. It's one of the games that are easy to learn and fun to play. The goal is to score as many points as possible by rolling five dice and attempting to make different varieties. If you're curious about how to play Yahtzee, we will provide you with all the information, so let's dive into the topic! Overview of the Gameplay So, how do you play Yahtzee? Well, it's played with five six-sided dice and a scorecard. Each player takes turns rolling the dice and attempting to make various combinations from the numbers. The varieties include 3-of-a-kind boxes, 4-of-a-kind boxes, small and large straight, full house, Yahzee (5-of-a-kind boxes), and chance. Each combination has a fixed value. The player with the highest total score at the end of the game wins. Step-by-Step Instructions Set up: Begin by placing the scorecard in the center of the table. Then, each participant takes a turn to roll the dice. The one who rolls the highest total goes first. Roll dice: The players roll five dice. The dice can be rolled up to three times in a turn. Score combinations: The partaker can score any combination they have rolled on their scorecard. If the player is unsuccessful in any category, they must write down a zero in the "chance" category. Re-roll if needed: The player may re-roll any or all dice up to three times in a turn and decide which dice to keep and which to re-roll. Yahtzee Rules Before you start, here are some essential rules of Yahtzee to ensure you have the best experience possible. How many dice do you need to play Yahtzee? Each player takes a turn rolling five dice. On your first roll, roll all five dice. You can set aside any keepers during the second roll of the game and re-roll the rest. On your third and final roll, you can roll some or all dice and must write down a dice score at the end of this roll. After each roll, you must set aside at least one die to build your score. The scored points in various categories, such as 3-of-a-kind box, 4-of-a-kind box, full house, small straight, large straight, or Yahtzee increase the chance of winning. You can choose the category you want to score in, but you can only earn points in one category. The participant who scored the highest amount at the end of the game wins. Now that you know the rules of Yahtzee, it's time to play the game. Components Yahtzee is one of the dice games that requires five standard dice and a scorepad. The game consists of 13 rounds, each with a different scoring category. 3-of-a-kind box: These boxes require three dice with the same number. The score is the sum of all dice. 4-of-a-kind box: These boxes require a player to have four dice with the same number. The score is the sum of all dice. Full house in Yahtzee: This category requires three dice with one number and two dice with another number. The score is 25 points. Small straight: This category requires a player to have four consecutive numbers in any order. The score is 30 points. Large straight: This category requires five consecutive numbers in any order. The score is 40 points. Yahtzee: This category requires a participant to have five dice with the same number. The Yahtzee score is 50 points; if a player scores a Yahtzee game in a subsequent round, they can earn bonuses. Chance: This category allows a player to score the sum of all dice, regardless of the combination. Yahtzee Scoring In Yahtzee, the scoring is counted as a combination of the upper and lower sections. The upper section: In this section of the Yahtzee dice game, you must earn points in categories one through six. The categories are: Ones Twos Threes Fours Fives Sixes Each category requires reaching the sum of the corresponding dice number. For example, if a player rolls three ones, two twos, and one five, they can achieve three points in the "ones" category and two points in the "twos" category. The lower section: In this section, you must score in categories numbered 7 through 13. The Yahtzee boxes are: 3-of-a-kind box 4-of-a-kind box  Full house Small straight Large straight Yahtzee Chance In these games, the score is based on the combination of numbers on the dice roll. For example, if a player rolls three fives and two threes, they can score 15 points in the "3-of-a-kind" category or 15 points in the "chance" category. A Yahtzee, which is 5-of-a-kind, scores 50 points. The objective of dice games is to collect points in 13 rounds. The upper section scores are added together, and if you score 63 or more points in this section, you receive a 35-point bonus. The final score is the sum of the upper section, the lower section, and any extras. Yahtzee Variations Basic Yahtzee: This is the classic example of Yahtzee variations, which is also the most popular. In this version, players take turns rolling the dice and attempting to make different varieties. The player with the highest total score at the end of the game wins. Yahtzee with multiple players: This variation allows multiple players to play together. Players take turns rolling the dice and scoring combinations on their scorecards. It can be a lot more competitive and fun when playing with friends. Yahtzee with extra dice: This variation has an additional die. The participant must score a combination with all six dice before their turn ends. This version is more challenging and requires thinking more strategically. Yahtzee Strategies Always try to get a full house first and then go for a large straight. Depending on the situation, you can also try for a 4-of-a-kind or a Yahtzee. Prioritize ones, twos, and threes if you need to get a full house. These are the most common numbers and most likely to appear. Try to keep all of your dice during each turn since you want to take advantage of all chances of getting a Yahtzee. When deciding which combination to go for, decide which would give you the most points. If you need a specific combination, keep the die with the number you need and roll the other die to get the required combination. If you are going for a Yahtzee, don't be afraid to take risks to get it. Always keep track of your scores and try to maximize them. Remember to use the scored points from bonuses if you have fulfilled the requirements of the games. Conclusion Yahtzee is a fun and easy game to learn. Can you play Yahtzee with two players? It can be played with two or more players and adapted to different difficulty levels. Players take turns rolling the dice and attempting to make various varieties from the numbers moved. The person with the highest total score at the end of the game wins. You can find resources online for more tips on winning at Yahtzee. There is also an online Yahtzee to try out. So, whether you're playing with friends, family, or even online, Yahtzee is the game that guarantees hours of entertainment. Yahtzee FAQ What is Yahtzee? Yahtzee is a popular dice game that can be played with two or more players. It's a game of luck, strategy, and skill, and the goal is to score the most points by rolling five dice and selecting different combinations. How do you win Yahtzee? The participant with the highest overall score at the end of the game wins. In addition, the player with the highest score in each category earns bonus points. What are the rules of Yahtzee? Each partaker takes turns rolling five dice and selecting different varieties of dice rolls. The person with the highest score in each category also earns bonus points in those games. After all players have taken turns, the one with the highest overall score wins. This is a simple explanation of how to play Yahtzee. How do you score in Yahtzee? The scores are calculated by adding the total of all the dice or selecting specific combinations (such as 3-of-a-kind, 4-of-a-kind, full house, etc.). Bonus points can also be earned by having the highest score in each category. What are the different categories of Yahtzee? The categories in Yahtzee include ones, twos, threes, fours, fives, sixes, 3-of-a-kind box, 4-of-a-kind box, full house, small straight, large straight, chance, and Yahtzee.

During the next World Series of Poker (WSOP) event in Las Vegas, many players dream of rising to the top in a game of Texas Hold'em. Nevertheless, few can claim to have done so. Texas Hold'em is a popular version of poker that offers plenty of depth, healthy competition, and resources to study the best strategy to play the game. Professional poker players will tell you that Texas Hold'em is a game of continuous improvement. Therefore, it would help if you used poker strategies to advance your hands as the game evolves. Additionally, the number of players is growing, which opens up new challenges and opportunities for innovation. We will examine what we consider the most viable Texas Hold'em strategy options for beginners and more advanced players striving to reach the final table of a WSOP event. Our strategy tips are based on conventional wisdom and what some top players have shared. So let's check it out. With our top Texas Hold 'em poker strategy tips, you can boost your place and give your playstyle a direction. What is Texas Hold 'em? Texas hold 'em is a variant of poker that is also referred to as Texas holdem, hold'em, or holdem. Each player receives two hole cards, known as hole cards, and then five community cards are dealt face up in three stages. A poker hand consists of three cards "the flop," a single card, "the turn" or "fourth street," and a final card, "the river." Each player tries to create the best five-card poker hand from the five community cards and the two-hole cards. It is possible for players to check, call, raise, or fold their bets. Several betting rounds occur before and after the flop is dealt with and after each subsequent deal. A player who holds the best hand at the end of all betting rounds wins the pot if no one has folded. It is possible for two players with equal hands to split the pot or tie. It is also known as a "chop-pot." HORSE and HOSE also feature Texas hold'em as the H game. Texas Hold 'em Tips Here we have listed some of the best strategies when playing Texas Hold 'em. They could increase your chances of victory: 1. Play Good Cards, and You Will Win 2. Playing in Position is Winning Poker 3. The Most Important Texas Hold 'em Strategy - Don't Tilt 4. Only Play Against Bad Poker Players 5. Study Your Poker Hands 6. Study Advanced Texas Hold 'em strategy 7. Understand Player Types 8. Bring Your "A" Game Every Single Time 9. Don't Wait For the Nuts Check our deeper explanation of each of the strategies listed above. 1. Play Good Cards, and You Will Win Any beginner in poker needs to learn the #1 Texas Hold 'em tip: you must play good poker hands to win. One of the biggest reasons amateurs lose at Texas Hold 'em is because they play too many trashy hands! In a 6-person poker game, you should be playing the top 20% of the hands dealt to you, and in a 9-person poker game, the top 15%. 2. Playing in Position is Winning Poker The next Texas Hold 'em strategy is to ensure you are playing most of your hands based on the pre-flop charts above. In other words, you want to play as often as possible from the two seats directly to the right of the blinds, the button, and the cutoff. 3. The Most Important Texas Hold 'em Tip - Don't Tilt Tilting too much is why some people don't succeed at Texas Hold 'em. Put another way; they get frustrated when they get bad luck. In addition, they play too many hands, play too aggressively, and make stupid bluffs and bad calls. 4. Only Play Against Bad Poker Players In Texas Hold 'em poker games, this is one of the most important keys to your success. Make sure that you play poker with bad players at all times. When playing online poker with a poker HUD, you should look for players with a VPIP of 40% or higher. Despite the frustration of playing against these "wild" players sometimes, you will profit greatly from them over time. When playing Texas Hold 'em, remember where the money comes from. Tight, solid regulars will not pad your profits. However, there are also many loose and wild amateurs. 5. Study Your Poker Hands The key to improving at Texas Hold 'em is to study your hands to find your leaks. One of the most effective methods you have used to stay ahead of the competition as a poker pro for the last 10+ years is by putting in the hours away from the tables, improving your skills. 6. Study Advanced Texas Hold 'em strategy Additionally, you need to know the latest advanced Texas Hold 'em strategies to succeed in this game. Nowadays, there are a lot of well-advanced poker training programs available. 7. Understand Player Types Keeping track of the type of poker player you are playing against is one of the top Texas Hold 'em tips. Nits, TAGs, LAGs, SLAGs, fish, etc., are frequently encountered. 8. Bring Your "A" Game Every Single Time Too many poker players play Texas Hold 'em when they aren't ready. As a result, their sleep was not enough, they didn't eat, and they were depressed, drunk, and hungover. 9. Don't Wait For the Nuts Another Texas Hold 'em tip is to stop waiting for the nuts before playing, especially against bad players. When you have a below-average hand, sometimes you have to mix it up with them. But unfortunately, many players make the mistake of playing too tight these days. Texas Hold'em Tips to Consider & Rules The most popular version of poker today is Texas Hold'em. Texas Hold 'em rules are used in the World Series of Poker Main Event, and most poker shows feature the game. Get a solid start to your poker career with these Texas Hold'em strategy tips. Read Your Opponent's Hand: Your opponent's hand strength can be determined by several factors. They should also consider what the flop offers, their table position, aggression in hand, and general aggression level. Opponent's Position: Based on the player's betting position, narrow down the possible outcomes. An early position bet usually indicates a stronger hand. When the flop is seen in a late position (with few opponents), there are more chances for success. Post-Flop Actions: Another clue is what a player does after the flop. Checking indicates uncertainty or weakness while raising indicates strength. Community Cards: "Dry boards" - flops without flush possibilities - are simpler to calculate. You can narrow your opponent's hand by looking at the broader picture. Opponent Behavior: Is your opponent slow to make a decision? Does it seem shorter or longer than usual? What is the size of the bets? What is the bet size compared to the player's previous hands? FAQ What's the worst starting hand you can get in Texas Hold 'em? In terms of statistics, an off-suited 72 should be the worst hand you can draw. When it's your turn, do you fold it? Many professionals and players with experience in the game will advise you to ditch it immediately. What are the best cards in Texas Hold 'em? Aces and Kings, paired, are usually the best cards. The Royal Flush is, however, the best hand. Before you act, you should refer to a Hold'em cheat sheet for percentages and odds. How many betting rounds are there in Texas Hold 'em? Poker has four betting rounds: the pre-flop, post-flop, turn, and river. Showdown is the last round of betting. Should I play not real money Texas Hold 'em to learn strategies? No. It is generally believed that playing Texas Hold'em for anything other than real money teaches bad habits. Most poker tips recommend playing cash games with small buy-ins, such as 0.01/0.02, also known as micro stakes. They may seem negligible, but they can help you cultivate the right mindset when playing Hold'em. Micro-stakes games can also be converted into tournament tickets, so don't play without simulating real money.