Most poker players are obsessed with improving their play, as well they should. Studying, practicing, keeping logs of hands played are all tools to improve play and profit. There are, however, other subtle ways to improve the bottom line.

Bonus accounts- Well known in the industry and I'm sure your aware of them. Some are better than others. The thing to remember is that some require long amounts of play in order for the bonus to clear. Others don't.

Prop play- They pay YOU to play poker. How could life get any better? Some of the less travelled sites will pay you either an hourly rate or a part of the the rake to play poker. Their intent is to induce players to to stay in the rooms, an obvious benefit for the site. The more tables that are open, the more players will fill them.

Player points- Maney sites offer player points, which can be redeemed for merchandise, or entry into various tournaments. This can be quite profitable. Entry into tournaments is the thing I like to do, (after all, what can I do with another poker cap in my closet). There is usually cash prizes or entry into other more lucrative tournaments.....besides, its great practice with low stress.

Money management. Just a word here. but its important. How many times have you been way ahead, continued to play, and ended up losing? Say no more, I've been there. More than you know. Poker has often been compared to trading stocks, in that you bet big on the high probability situations and minimize your risk on the low probability situations. A key factor in the success of trading equities is risk management.

Setting certain goals so that your gauranteed a profit and to limit your losses is the key to long term success, both intrading and when playing poker. For example, set your loss limit to 30% of your starting stake and your win exit at 100%. Pick some limits that feel comfotable for you and fit your style. Stick to it. The impulse to continue to play when your losing can be devastating, because you'll be trying to catch up, and thats when all logic and reason flee the contents of your mind, and impulse and emotion take over. DEADLY for any poker player. Don't do it. May all your rivers flow smoothly.

Paul Nickel is an avid poker player and commodities trader. You can find more tips on both at http://www.poker-cash.info and http://www.lowrisktrading.info. Both sites have money making methods that are time sensitive, you should check them out now.Contents of this article, in part or whole, can be copied or shared as long as author credits and functional links to my sites are included