Poker is a card game where players try to create the best hand. While luck plays a major role in the game, there are some skills you can develop that will help you win more often and make more money.

Mental Toughness

Developing the ability to remain positive even after losses is a crucial part of being a successful poker player. Phil Ivey, for example, is known for his calm, steady, and resolute demeanor.

Reading People

The ability to read other players is an important skill for any poker player. It’s not difficult to learn, but it does require a keen eye for details like facial expressions and body language.

Strategy

The most effective strategy for playing poker is to bet and raise only when you have good information on your opponent’s hand strength, stack size, and the board. This will give you a lot of bluff equity, and it will also allow you to play more value hands while staying away from speculative ones.

Position

When you’re playing poker, it’s important to always be in the right position. Being first to act gives you more information than your opponents, which will help you make better bluffs and cbets.

Betting Intervals

Each betting interval lasts until everyone in the pot puts in exactly as much as they did before. Then the cards are exposed and a showdown takes place where the best hand wins the pot.