Dear Expert Guide,

What can I do to keep my game sharp if I have time to spare but not long enough to visit a card room? I never get to play too much poker in my hectic schedule.

Your best options are (in order), I think:

1) Playing against good software like Wilson's.
2) Reading or re-reading good poker books and articles.
3) Playing online poker for real money.
4) Playing online poker "free" games.

I rate online poker last, because so many of the skills required for live games don't work there and you can't practice there. It's also dangerous for people who might have gaming addictions, because the access is so easy. Finally, you often run into very annoying people who like to make irritating comments because they are safely anonymous and this is the only place in the world they can run their mouths without fear.

Nonetheless, the games can be beatable. I suggest turning off the chat feature, if you're going to play, and to be cautious about possible collusion. I rank free games below money games because I don't think they simulate real betting conditions well. There's no substitute for real live games, but reading and practicing with software can take you a long, long way.

Andy Glazer