Phil Gordon gives some great online poker secrets in regards to how to play when you are the big stack at the table in a poker tournament:

1. Never limp into a pot
2. If the blinds consist of tight players with average stacks, play almost any hand in position
3. Punish limpers with big raises from position when you think they are weak
4. Call from position more often when an opponent with an average stack enters the pot with a raise
5. Rarely, if ever, confront a short-stacked opponent without a premium poker hand
6. Try to win more hands before the flop

When in a poker tournament, no matter what stage you are at: PLAY TO WIN! DO NOT PLAY TO SURVIVE!!!

An important note about playing poker tournaments:  Know the structure before you play!

This is important because, any changes in the structure can affect your overall play.  If the structure is regular for the first 2 hours, and then afterwards, speeds up a bit – you will have to make a change in your game.  If you arent aware of this before you begin the poker tournament, you may find yourself struggling to catch up and then you are not playing your A game.

When playing a full ring table or full table poker tournament of Omaha, you must keep in mind – just because you flop the nuts, doesnt mean that you are going to win the hand!  Generally speaking, when playing Texas Holdem, flopping the Nut Straight or Nut Flush is a great thing!   In Omaha (especially PLO), you need to be careful. 

Being that this is a drawing game, players are not going to let go of their draws to a “better nut” hand – and if there are more than 3 players that saw the flop, I can guarantee that you are getting callers. 

Rules in flopping the nuts:

1. DO NOT slowplay on the flop – BET THE POT!
2. If you get called, and the turn is a blank – BET THE POT AGAIN!
3. If the turn pairs the board, bet – but be VERY cautious of a caller and FOLD to a reraiser

Every online poker room offers poker promotions and extra value! And the reality is, every poker player has different needs.

Poker is about making a profit, it is not a popularity contest: You don’t have to play where everyone else is playing just to fit in!  Poker is about putting yourself forward and doing what is best for yourself. 

You may not think this is an online poker secret; however, this is probably one of the best peices of advice I can give you.  Find what you need as a player.  Are you a break even or small profit player, but you play often?  Rakeback would be great for you.  Do you like to try out different rooms and see their quality? Poker Bonus Hunting may be good for you.  Are you a grinder?  Both Rakeback along with Extra Value packages could be a great benefit.  Can you rake a lot quickly?  Rake Races would be a great bankroll boost for you! Do you dream about playing in a major poker tournament but dont have a bankroll?  Many sites offer sponsorship by rake packages.

Remember, poker isnt only about playing the game itself; its about finding the best possible ways to make you the most profitable poker player.