Cash game tips for the live table

Play fewer hands, and play them harder. Most chips at a live table are lost by calling with hands that were never good enough to start with. Fold more before the flop, and raise the hands you do play rather than limping in.

Position is worth more than cards. Acting last lets you see what everyone else does first. Open more hands on the button and in the cut-off, and fewer from the blinds and the first seats after them.

Watch the table while you are not in a hand. Who calls too much, who only bets when they have it, who tilts after losing a pot: the next hour is decided by what you notice now.

Size your bets for a reason. Bet bigger for value against players who call too much, and smaller when you only want to take the pot down. A bet with no reason behind it costs chips either way.

Do not pay off the big bet on the river without a plan. Live players bluff the river less than you think. If the story does not hold together, a fold is fine.

Keep your stack in line with your bankroll, and leave when you are tired or tilted. A long session is only worth it while you are playing your best.

Poker is a game of skill, and you can still lose money at it. Play with money you can afford to lose.