Poker is a card game played between two or more players and where the goal is to form a winning hand based on the ranking of the cards. Players place chips into a central pot, representing the money they wish to put at risk for the chance of making a winning hand. While the initial forced bets are largely determined by chance, in the long run players are guided by decisions made on the basis of probability theory, psychology, and game theory.

Many players learn their strategy through studying the plays of famous pros, but it’s also a good idea to develop a unique style based on detailed self-examination and review of your results. Some players even discuss their play with others for a more objective look at their strengths and weaknesses.

Don’t play every hand

The first rule of playing poker is to never hold a weak hand. Most pro players will tell you to play only strong hands like a pair of aces, kings, queens, or jacks. While this may be the right play for someone who wants to make a living at poker, it is not a good strategy for most casual players.

Another important rule is to play the player, not your cards. A good hand is only as good as the other players around you. For example, if you hold K-K and the other player holds A-A, your kings are losers 82% of the time.