Many players use a “script” when they are involved in a hand at the poker table. Players have different scripts that they use and preferences for questions to include in their poker script, but whatever the script it serves several important purposes. One indirect benefit of using a script is that it calms you down, takes emotion out of the equation, and allows you to focus on the problem at hand. Another benefit is that it forces you to take extra time to make your decision and you are less likely to make careless errors or miss valuable opportunities.

This is the script that I use:

• How is my opponent(s) playing? Aggressive / passive, tight / loose?
• What is my table image? Have I been playing lots of pots or just a few?
• What range of hands is my opponent(s) is likely to hold?
• Based upon my answers thus far, should I bet or raise?
• Should I check or fold?

It is important to answer the first three questions to the best of your ability and consider the answers carefully when deciding whether you are going to bet, raise, check, or fold. If I have the best hand or even if I might have the worst hand but I think that my opponent is either weak or very very tight, I will bet or raise. If I am beat and I think it will be difficult to get my opponent out of the pot, then I check or fold. Semi-bluffing opportunities are a tough one, and they often come down to preference and style of play. Generally it is a good idea to think about your image and your opponents tendencies when making a decision about whether or not to make a semi-bluff.

By using this script you will slow down the decision making process at the table and make fewer mistakes. Many amateurs have a habit of acting quickly at the poker table. This can lead to many missed opportunities and careless mistakes. Try pasting the script into notepad and leaving it next to your poker table the next time you play.