Some avid casino players dream of becoming professional poker players. However, the majority of poker fans have never even considered turning their passion into a full-time job.
Becoming a professional poker player is feasible and might be a great option for those who are highly passionate about the game. Players just need to be determined, disciplined, eager to learn and resilient.
There are ten steps to becoming a professional poker player. By following these steps, players will have a fair chance of making it.
Ten steps to become a professional poker player
Here are the key steps to follow in order to turn poker gaming into a profession.
1. Practice
As the saying goes, practice makes perfect. The best way to become a professional poker player is to put in the time.
Professional players are experts at the game. They have tried different strategies and tested out a variety of techniques.
They know what their game strengths and flaws are. They consciously work on improving their game abilities through consistent practice.
Some players practice at land-based casinos but most players now use online poker casinos for convenience.
That being said, both land-based and online casinos complement each other. They each require a slightly different set of skills.
In other words, players who practice at both types of venues are usually more versatile and resilient. They are better at adapting to new game environments and adjusting their strategy based on the type of poker tournament they are playing at.
Nowadays, there are many online poker tournaments and competitions so knowing how to win at online poker is a useful skill to have.
In short, players should aim to practice consistently at both land-based and online casinos to improve their game and versatility.
2. Read poker strategy books and study the game
Poker professionals study the game of poker. They read poker strategy books and watch other professionals play to study their game.
Some of the most popular poker strategy books include:
- Games, Gambling and Probability: An Introduction to Mathematics by David G. Taylor
- The Theory of Poker: A Professional Poker Player Teaches You How to Think Like One by David Sklansky
- Modern Poker Theory: Building an Unbeatable Strategy Based on GTO Principles by Michael Acevedo
The vast majority of poker professionals read poker books and test out the different strategies they learn about to find the one that works for them.
When poker games and tournaments are filmed, many professionals ask to rewatch them afterwards. They do so to analyze the strengths and flaws in their game, learn from their mistakes and assess the efficiency of their poker strategy.
Footage can also help players improve their poker face. As most people know, it is important to keep a neutral face in poker.
3. Budget
It is important to budget when becoming a professional poker player. Becoming a professional player is an investment and will require funds.
That being said, players can take advantage of free games or demo games to practice for free.
4. Play a variety of poker games
There are many different poker variations on the market. Players should learn about the different variations such as Texas Hold’Em and Omaha poker.
They should try out a wide variety of poker variations to broaden their understanding of the game.
5. Reinforce your mental skills
Poker is a game that requires strong mental skills such as good memory, concentration and emotional management skills.
The best poker players know how to manage their stress and emotions. Poker practice will help develop these skills but other brain games can also reinforce these skills.
6. Use probability and math
Poker players should not forget the power of probability and math in poker games.
These skills can help them increase their odds of winning.
7. Hire a coach
Just as sport athletes do, most professional poker players have a coach. Their coach is usually a poker expert or a former professional poker player.
A coach can identify the flaws and the strengths in a player’s game. They can help them improve their technique and develop a winning strategy.
8. Eat well and exercise
Professional poker players need to be in shape to keep up with the long and very intense poker tournaments.
They also need to make sure that their brain has the proper nutrients it needs to function well.
In other words, they need to eat well and exercise. They should prioritize “brain foods” and sports that boost their immune system and improve their cardio.
9. Poker tournaments
Players need to practice by playing at poker tournaments and competitions. Through these tournaments, they can earn a worldwide poker ranking and start their professional journey.
10. Stay curious
The world of poker is constantly changing due to new technological advancements and poker variations.
Professional poker players keep up to date with the latest developments and stay curious throughout their careers.
Final thoughts
By following these ten steps, players can start their professional poker journey and turn their dream into reality.