1. If you are totally new to the game, start by playing with play-money. The tables where play-money is used are marked "play-money" or similar. Here you only play in order to learn how the poker software works or getting used to reading the cards at the table. You might also play just for the fun of it.

2. Do not play too long with play-money if you later are planning to play with real money later. Why? Because the game will be completely different when real money gets involved. Playing for pounds can be an expensive education!