There are many ways to learn poker, such as watching videos, taking classes with a coach, analyzing hands with other players, working with equity calculators, and practicing. Another classic method is reading books.
However, some people assume that all poker manuals can quickly become outdated. Let's determine if author John Anhalt and his poker book "Flawless Poker" are still relevant.
About the Author
John Anhalt is a professional poker player who has been playing since 2004. He built a six-figure bankroll from a single $50 deposit and became famous for playing no-limit Texas Holdem at NL200-NL600.
Anhalt has recorded more than 150 training videos and co-authored 4 books.
Many later manuals are now outdated, but Flawless Poker is still respected by players. Anhalt is a founder of the online educational project PokerZion and actively participated in developing poker software like Leak Buster and Ace Poker Drills.
As a coach, John Anhalt's hallmark is encouraging each student's personal characteristics. While most teachers prefer teaching the same playing style to all students, Anhalt analyzes and improves everyone's unique style, differing from popular opinion.
If you’re searching for an online copy, type ”Джон Енхолт. Бездоганний покер.” into Google and you’ll see various options available for translation. Your browser should complete the task easily. Unfortunately, its not easy to find English versions of the text anymore.
Key Points of the Book
Released in 2014, "Flawless Poker" remains relevant due to its detailed explanations of fundamental concepts and clear examples. The book reveals the concept of expected profit (EV) with a full-fledged calculation table. Anhalt also provides practical comparisons of poker players' mental levels.
In "Flawless Poker," Anhalt promotes his views on the game and optimal strategy. He argues that there is no universal winning strategy, and students need to adapt to different types of opponents. Anhalt insists that an externally imposed style will lead to lower results.
Although not a fundamental work at only 139 pages, "Flawless Poker" will bring real benefits with thoughtful reading. For those not ready to dive into this book, the GipsyTeam articles section offers useful materials on strategy, history, famous players, and reputable poker rooms.
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Other Poker Books You Should Examine
In addition to John Anhalt's "Flawless Poker," several other well-known poker books remain respected and widely used by players seeking to improve their skills.
"The Theory of Poker" by David Sklansky, published in 1999, is considered a classic in the poker world. Sklansky breaks down the fundamental theories and concepts that apply to all forms of poker, providing readers with a solid foundation for developing their strategies. The book covers essential topics such as pot odds, bluffing, and hand ranges, making it a valuable resource for both beginners and experienced players.
Another highly regarded book is "Applications of No-Limit Hold'em" by Matthew Janda. Released in 2013, this book delves into the complex world of modern poker theory, focusing on game theory optimal (GTO) play. Janda explains advanced concepts like range-based play, balance, and exploitative strategies in a clear and accessible manner. While the content may be challenging for beginners, this book is a must-read for serious players looking to take their game to the next level.
Lastly, "The Mental Game of Poker" by Jared Tendler and Barry Carter, published in 2011, tackles the often-overlooked psychological aspects of the game. The authors provide practical advice on managing tilt, dealing with variance, and maintaining emotional control at the tables. By addressing the mental challenges that players face, this book helps readers develop a winning mindset and improve their overall performance.
Are Books Still a Good Way to Learn Poker?
While online resources like videos and training sites have gained popularity, books remain a valuable tool for learning poker. Well-written books offer in-depth explanations of key concepts and strategies, allowing readers to study at their own pace. Many classic poker books, such as those mentioned earlier, have stood the test of time and continue to be recommended by top players.
However, it's essential to supplement book learning with other methods, such as analyzing hands, discussing strategies with other players, and gaining practical experience at the tables. Ultimately, a combination of learning approaches, including reading books, is the most effective way to improve your poker skills.
How to Progress in Poker
The fastest way to improve playing skills is to consult a coach who can identify strategy gaps, correct them, and create a training plan. Poker schools and betting funds are good alternatives, teaching for free in exchange for a share of future profits. We can link you directly to both coaches and poker schools with our support service.
Independent learners can benefit from poker software classes, especially Flopzilla, which develops thinking in ranges. Educational videos, like the ABC Poker playlist on the GipsyTeam YouTube channel, are also valuable for beginners.
Practice against real opponents is crucial, and many poker rooms offer free play. These freeroll tournaments can give you a way to build up your bankroll, gain experience, and lose nothing in the process.
Register in rooms using GipsyTeam links to participate in freerolls.
