Poker is a game of chance, but it’s also a game of psychology and decision-making. Developing the right mental framework is essential to playing well, and understanding your own tendencies will help you avoid making costly mistakes.
The game begins with each player placing an ante to the pot (the amount of money they’re willing to put at risk by betting on their hand). After all players have antes in the pot the dealer deals everyone two cards face down that they can only see. These are their hole or pocket cards. Players can fold, call or raise during this phase of the game.
After the pre-flop betting round is complete three more cards are dealt face up on the table that all players can use. These are called the flop and another round of betting takes place. If you have a strong hand you can “call” to stay in the hand or raise to force other players out of it.
It’s important to learn from the mistakes of other players as well as studying their successful moves. This will expose you to different strategies and styles of play, allowing you to incorporate successful elements into your own gameplay.
