Texas Holdem Tools

The list of poker software and tools used by the modern player is growing all the time. Technology is constantly improving so that now you can choose from low-tech basic help and more advanced poker software. Each of these items can help you improve facets of your game.

Some of the poker tools discussed in this article would be best used before you play, though some poker software is designed to run while you’re actually engaged in a game of online poker. Even the live casino player can benefit from these items, as a better overall poker game translates to better live casino play.

• Poker Odds Calculator

  An odds calculator can recommend your next move, give data on pot odds, and inform you of the chances of hitting your outs or winning the pot. New players can use this software to avoid mistakes, while veterans can increase the number of tables they play at with a little assistance.

  Other features offered by this type of poker software include the betting and folding tendencies of your opponents and a database of players that can be retrieved within moments. Special versions also exist for Texas hold’em tournament play.

• Poker Income Tracker Software

  Most poker income tracker software is compatible with mobile devices. It allows you to track all your wins and losses. The database breaks information down by the opponents you’ve dominated or struggled against, as well as any styles or tells. You can also analyze if certain times and locations are more beneficial to your playing style. You have the option of playing customizable games such as HORSE, Razz, Omaha, Stud, and, of course, Texas hold’em. PokerTracker is the best known software of this type.

• Poker Books and Magazines

  Poker books and magazines aren’t exactly high-tech, but they’ve come a long way since Super/System. Today’s publications are packed with glossy photos, interviews with the hottest poker professionals, and advice for every type of hand you might encounter. And while Brunson’s legendary tome still remains a must-read, the market is overflowing with expert advice from notable pros such as Phil Hellmuth, Gus Hansen, and Annie Duke.

• Poker Strategy Videos

  Visual learners should take advantage of the poker strategy videos on the market. Phil Hellmuth has released several over the years. Other notable names with instructional poker videos include Chris Moneymaker, Mike Caro, and Howard Lederer.

  Before you head over to Amazon to purchase these poker tools, keep in mind that some of the same information can be found at streaming video sites like YouTube.

• Poker Training Software

  If you need to improve your skills at heads-up play, poker training software is a good investment. Poker training software actually simulates competing against a strong opponent with high blinds. Push or call values for each hand are provided, and constant practice will have you prepared for any heads-up situation. Wilson Poker Software is one of the best programs you can buy for this purpose.

• Poker Staking Websites

  Finding someone to stake you in a poker game used to be a difficult proposition. Just locating someone to risk their money was tough enough, but then there were also negotiations about percentages and other features of the stake. Now, thanks to the Internet, poker players can quickly get in contact with individuals willing to stake them.

• Poker Podcasts

  Podcasts are like radio broadcasts for the iPod generation, and you’ll find a surprising amount of content about poker in the podcast format. As an experiment, I typed in the word “poker” in the iTunes store.

  I scrolled past the various apps and full-length TV episodes to the podcast section. Hundreds of options were waiting for me. If you want to keep up with the latest poker news, but don’t feel like dealing with trolls or folks who think they’re God’s gift to the Internet, skip the forums and give poker podcasts a try.

• Poker Forums

  Let’s talk about the positive aspects of poker forums. For starters, dozens of online poker forums are packed with poker players looking to swap stories and advice. These sites provide an excellent resource for modern players. TwoPlusTwo.com is one of the best poker forums online, especially if you’re results-oriented and want to make money. Over 300,000 players post there. Two Plus Two also publishes a wide range of poker books.

  Not only do poker forums offer an excellent way to stay on top of industry happenings, but they’re the perfect place to learn new strategies and find a sympathetic ear for your bad beat stories.

The poker software and tools used by the modern player are almost limitless, and new tools are added to the market every month. There’s nothing wrong with taking the old school approach to learning poker, but these high and low tech options will give you a greater understanding of the game in a more efficient fashion.

But remember: there’s no substitute for actually playing the game, so put in some time at the tables.