The variations of Texas Holdem is based on the betting limit. Limit Texas Holdem and No-Limit Texas Holder are the most popular ones. Limit Texas Holdem is where there is a limit on the bet amount and the raise and in no-limit there are not limits to the betting amount or the raises. Limit Holdem is mainly played in most of the casinos and the No-limit holdem is most frequently played in the tournaments.

If you are a beginner and are just trying to ground your foot at playing poker, it is best advised to stay away from no-limit version. No-Limit Texas holdem is not suitable for beginners as the risk involved is much higher and without knowing the game well, it would be difficult to win and also the stakes are very high.

In no-limit the players are aggressive and are more deceptive as they are much experienced. Also, the skills required are high as you need to read each of your opponent accurately. There are various playing styles in no-limit holdem and it depends on the players as to which style of play they choose to play in order to win the game. The difference between no-limit and limit texas holdem is in the position and the hand value.

Position is very important in no-limit as the decision will have a greater impact and if you trap you opponent with the help of position, you could win the entire stack. Hands like AK, AQ and KQ loose value in no-limit as these hands help you in win small pots rather than win big ones and no-limit is about winning the big pots.

The pairs tend to increase in value as you can double through your opponents when you hit a set. It’s important to keep a track of the amount of money on the table. The stack size also decides the course of the game.

Key skills required in mastering No-Limit Texas Holdem are:

Strict hand selection - The stakes are high you might want to form the best hand rather than form a hand as quick as possible.

Good table selection – Table selection is important as this decides your opponents. Be aware of your skill sets and choose the table wisely.

Discipline – Be disciplined and wait for a good hand.

Reading your opponents – Far more important that in any other version of the game as the stakes are really high.

Few things to keep in mind while playing no-limit holdem are:

1. Choose the table where you have an edge. It’s better to choose a table with a couple of weak players rather than compete against tough ones.

2. Asses your opponents as quickly as possible. Make note of things like who plays inferior hands and of those who fold at aggression. Identify players who can be bluffed and those who are bluffing.

3. Avoid calling unless there is a chance of trapping an opponent.

4. Respect the big bets and raises especially during the turn and river as this stage sees less bluffs.