Questions to ppl who transitioned from online to live poker

[Talking Poker]

I actually started my Texas Hold'Em career in a home game way back when. Then Vegas in 99 and 2000... I didn't play online regularly until early 2003. BUT..... with that said, I didn't play THAT much live, and I'd consider myself an online player more than a B&M player. I still remember the first time I tossed an oversized chip into the pot at the Bellagio without saying "Raise," so it was ruled a call. Haven't made that mistake again, and I never will.

As for your specific questions:

1. The only thing that was remotely difficult for me was keeping track of the size of the pot. It was ALWAYS bigger than I would have guessed at first. To this day, it's easier for me to review the action in my head to add up the pot than to try to estimate by looking at it. Some casinos/tourneys allow the dealer to count the pot down for you, and others only allow them to spread it.

2. I think this also depends on the game/tourney. Personally, I will gladly count down my stack for an opponent. I'm not afraid of giving anything away.

3. I love playing live. I won't say I have a gift for picking up tells or anything (because I don't), but I am pretty good at putting people on hands and telling if they are weak or strong. Sometimes I can tell by looking at them, but I can't necessarily tell you WHY I can tell. Like, it's not their eyes or their hands or their voice - it's the whole picture.

4. I wear sunglasses sometimes, but not all the time. Honestly, I find them kind of annoying, but when I am in a hand, I like having them on, both to hide my subconscious tells that I may not even be aware of, but also so I can look at my opponent(s) without him/them knowing. I can sit there and stare at him without him knowing it. If it's really bright, I also like the shades for a break from the light. Most of the time though, I find my sunglasses sitting on top of my hat and I put them on when I get involved in a hand, ala Greg Raymer.

5. I keep a notebook for tourneys now. I never used to, but I find it beneficial. Especially if I want to write up a recap for you guys.... which reminds me, I still haven't done my Aruba tourney recap!