A little help

I've been invited to play in a neighborhood poker game and am not real sure what to expect. I've played a little online (not for money) so I know the basics but I don't know if there's a standard format for garage games or etiquette I should be aware of. I'm looking for a little guidance so I don't look like a total jackass as I'm losing all my money!

It's probably a good idea to ask the "house rules" so you don't come upon anything unexpectedly...as for looking like a jackass, I wouldn't worry about that too much...just do what you think is right and learn from it. Robert Varkonyi isn't ashamed of the way he plays, why should you?

Good, thank you. "House rules" got it. Sounds like I know what I'm doing.

You're right, it's a $5 buyin so I'm not terribly concerned about the money. Just want to have a good time and not be too confused or, like I said, look like a jackass!

I'd ask what the "house rules" are in case they do anything odd.

Pay attention when the first person deals. Do they burn a card (deal one face down) preflop, and before the turn and river (they should).

Be careful not to flash the bottom of the deck when dealing and practise shuffling before you go so you are confident and don't fumble.

Don't worry if you turn a card over when dealing, it happens. Someone will sort it out.

When you bet, say out loud "raise" if you are raising and call if you are calling it saves a lot of trouble if people are tight about complaining about string bets. A string bet is when you put some chips in the pot ie call, and then add a few more in a second movement, the idea is you might be fishing for information.

Mainly just relax and remember they all played the first time once as well.

Good luck

Wow, typed "house rules" at the same time. Clearly good advice

lol

Haha! Okay, definitely going with the "house rules". I'm fairly confident in shuffling and I'm not terribly nervous because these are all friends. Be vocal, got that. Good advice, that's what I'm looking for. People actually say "raise" and "call" in a face-to-face game. I wasn't sure.

Not everyone does and you don't have to, but it avoids confusion if you do and takes pressure off fumbling with your chips.

You can check out this site. At the top they have standard "Poker Rules" which are the standards.

http://www.pokertips.org/glossarydefs/117.php

Noted - how about a little strategy? Is there a small tip or two for a beginner I might try using tonight?