Video poker is essentially a game of ability, however it is also about chance.  By following these points, you will increase your odds of success by playing nearer to an expert level.

Only use the video poker machines that give back all of the coins bet – these are referred to as full payback machines.  If the payback is not shown then check out the chart attached to the piece of equipment and pick the machine that will pay out the most for a flush and a full house.  The larger the return for these hands the greater the overall percentage pay out will be for this machine.

The greatest number of coins (typically five) as well as payouts are shown on all machines.  It is a smart option to at all times play the highest quantity of tokens so that you are eligible for the extra payout should they make a royal flush.  Also make sure the machine takes all of your coins prior to playing – in case you hit the jackpot, you need to be certain five tokens were played.

At all times remember that when playing video poker you are playing a computer not playing other players, and the machine is set to pay out only if you have any of the posted winning hands.  At casinos there are machines that pay out 100% when people play at an expert level.  The casinos can afford this since the majority of video poker players play at a level far removed from the expert level required for the 100% pay out.

Never keep a kicker playing card, which is a high value playing card to be used along with a pair.  When playing at standard poker tables in gaming establishments this works, however the machine does not care therefore you have ruined your probability of getting a superior playing card.

Completing an inside straight (a player has four playing cards but is missing a single card in the middle needed to complete the straight) is difficult so it best not to try it.  Your likelihood of finishing an open-ended straight (where you have four consecutive cards and require one more at either end to complete the straight) are much higher so attempt it.

Players who are dealt a low value two of a kind as well as an individual high ranking playing card ought to retain the pair and discard the high ranking card.  Loads of individuals would discard a low ranking pair (say twos) and hold a high ranked card (like an Ace); however this is not the smartest way to play this hand.  You have a better chance at making three of a kind than attempting something with the high valued credit card.

If you have cards that include a four-card flush, a four-card open straight or a three card royal flush but also include a high ranked pair; retain the pair.  Your best bet is to try to complete three of a kind since at the worst case a player will have recovered her or his bet.

If you have a low value two of a kind in addition to a four-card open end straight, hold the pair.  A low ranked two of a kind is more valuable than trying to make a straight and should be retained.

A three-card royal should be kept over a low ranked pair, a four-card flush or a four-card open end straight.  The bonus for making the royal flush makes it a smarter bet..

When you are holding a garbage set of cards, which is one that does not have at least one high card, it is a good idea to draw all five playing cards.