A Beginner’s Guide to Making Money with Online Poker

Getting started with online poker can feel overwhelming, but if you're willing to learn, stay patient, and avoid common traps, there’s real potential to turn it into a side income or more. You don’t need to be a math genius or a pro-level bluffer to make money; you just need the right mindset and structure.

In this blog, we’ll break down how online poker works, what to know before you start playing for real money, and how you can steadily improve your chances of winning.

Understanding the Basics of Online Poker

Online poker is a card game where you play against other players using an internet platform instead of a physical table. Whether you’re playing Texas Hold’em, Omaha, or Short Deck, the basic idea is the same: make the best hand or get others to fold.

What you need to know before getting started:

• You play against real people, not bots, especially on licensed platforms like Natural8 India.

• Real money is involved. Even low-stakes games deal with real money, so every decision matters.

• You get to choose between cash games, tournaments, and formats like Spin & Gold (fast-paced games with a random prize pool).

• The platform takes a small fee from each pot—this is called the rake. It's how poker sites make money.

Most people confuse poker with gambling—poker is a skill game. You don’t have to be the smartest player in the room. You just need to make fewer mistakes than others.

Setting Up to Play Online Poker

Getting started with an online poker game in India is simple. You just need a smart device with a good internet connection, and a few minutes to register. Here’s how to get started:

1. Choose a licensed platform like Natural8 India – which offers smooth gameplay and secure payments.

2. Create a gaming account using your email and set up a password.

3. Verify your identity (KYC - Know Your Customer). This is required for security and withdrawal purposes.

4. Download the app or play it via your browser – it works on mobile, tablet, and desktop.

5. Deposit real money using UPI, net banking, or wallets. You’ll get 28% GST bonus for every deposit.

Once you’re in, start with low-stakes tables. This gives you time to learn the format without taking a big risk.

Making Money While Playing Online Poker – What You Need to Know

You can make money from online poker, but it’s not a quick process. It requires practice, bankroll management, and discipline.

Here’s what to focus on if you want to build a steady profit:

• Play at the right stakes: Don’t jump into high-stakes games unless you can afford to lose that money.

• Study your hands: Platforms like Natural8 India have tools like Smart HUD and Pokercraft to review your gameplay.

• Track your results: Keep a simple record of wins and losses. Don’t rely on your memory.

• Avoid tilt: If you feel angry or frustrated, take a break. Emotional play is expensive.

• Stick to one format at first—cash games, tournaments, or Sit & Gos. Learn it well before moving on.

Poker is not about playing a lot. It’s about playing well and playing when it makes sense.

Common Mistakes to Avoid as a Beginner

Many new players in an online poker game in India lose money not because of bad luck but because of avoidable mistakes. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Playing too many hands: Folding is part of the game. Don’t get bored and play random cards.

• Chasing every draw: Just because you have a chance to hit a straight or flush doesn’t mean it’s worth calling big bets.

• Not having a bankroll: Don’t deposit your full salary and hope for the best. Stick to a small poker budget that you’re okay with losing.

• Ignoring table dynamics: Don’t multitask or play casually. Watch how others play—some of the easiest money comes from players not paying attention.

• Jumping stakes too fast: Just because you won at ₹50 buy-in tables doesn’t mean you’re ready for ₹500 ones. Stick to levels where you’re consistently winning.

Advanced Tips Once You’re Comfortable

Once you’ve played a decent number of hands and are doing fine in online poker real money games, you can level up with some advanced strategies:

• Think in ranges, not hands: Don’t try to guess your opponent’s exact cards. Instead, consider the range (types) of hands they might have based on their actions.

• Use blockers smartly: If you have a card that makes it less likely for your opponent to have a strong hand (like the Ace of Spades when a flush is possible), you can use that to your advantage.

• Mix up your play: Don’t become predictable. Raise with weak hands occasionally and call with strong ones. Keep your opponents guessing.

• Table selection matters: You don’t have to play the first table you see. Choose tables with weaker or casual players. Natural8 India allows you to filter games based on table type and player count.

• Master short-handed games: Most low-stakes cash games and turbo tournaments are 6-max or 4-max. These need a different approach—play more hands and be ready to fight for pots.

Is It Really Possible to Make a Living Playing Online Poker?

Yes, some people do make a consistent income from online poker. But there’s a big difference between occasionally winning and actually relying on poker to pay your bills.

Here’s what making a living from online poker actually looks like:

1. You need volume

This isn’t about playing one big ₹5,000 game and walking away rich. Most grinders play multiple tables at once, often 6 to 10, and play thousands of hands weekly. If you're only playing casually, consistent income is unrealistic.

2. Your win rate matters

Winning small amounts consistently is more reliable than chasing one big score. Real pros focus on small but regular profits over time.

3. Bankroll management is non-negotiable

You can't treat your poker bankroll like spending money. Professionals treat it like a business account. This means setting limits, avoiding emotional decisions (also known as 'tilt'), and never playing stakes you can’t afford to lose.

4. You need to beat the rake

The house takes a small fee (called the rake) from every pot or entry. If you're not winning enough to beat this cost over time, you're not actually profitable.

5. It’s mentally demanding

It’s not just about skill. Playing 6+ hours a day requires strong focus, patience, and emotional control. The swings (wins and losses) can be brutal, especially in real-money online poker games.

From Rookie to Real Money Winner

Making money with online poker is possible, but it’s not just about luck or flashy bluffs. It requires patience, bankroll control, and the willingness to learn from your mistakes. Once you build that discipline, the results will follow.

If you’re serious about building your game, Natural8 India provides a solid platform to start with, offering real-money games, beginner-friendly formats, and reliable support for Indian players. Sign up now!