The game of poker is a card game in which players place chips (representing money) into a pot, determined by the rules of the specific variant being played. With the exception of initial forced bets, each player places money into the pot voluntarily and for reasons chosen on the basis of probability, psychology and game theory.
As a game of skill, poker is relatively easy to win if you understand the basics. It is also a very easy game to become good at, provided that you are willing to make the necessary changes in your thought process and emotional state to be successful at it.
One of the biggest changes in a beginner’s mindset that can turn them into a break-even or winning player is starting to view the game in a much colder, more detached, mathematical and logical way than they currently do. Having the right poker learning tools can go a long way towards this, but it’s also a matter of observing the other players at your table and exploiting their common mistakes.
For example, if an opponent constantly checks after the flop, then it is likely that they have a strong hand and that they will call any bet, especially when you raise it. Conversely, if an opponent never bluffs, then they will often be bluffed out of the pot when you are in late position. Aside from this, poor players will often check when they should bet and will often bet too small, giving their opponents a price that makes calling a strong play more likely.