Poker is a game of chance, but it also involves quite a bit of psychology and strategy. The difference between break even beginner players and big-time winners is usually just a few small adjustments they can learn that allow them to view the game in a more cold, detached, mathematical, and logical way.
A good place to start is by reading some books about poker strategy. Most books have about 15 chapters and can easily be studied over the course of a few weeks. Trying to understand all the different aspects of the game can be overwhelming and it is best to focus on ONE concept each week. For example, if you are looking to improve your pre-flop decisions then studying a book about cbets or 3bets is more efficient than trying to learn everything at once.
Another great way to learn is by talking about hands with winning players at your level or in the same stakes. Find a few players who are doing well and start a group chat or weekly meeting where you discuss difficult spots that you have found yourself in. This can help you to understand how other players think about the game and get a different perspective on your own decision making.
When playing poker it is important to always play with a positive attitude. This will not only make you a better player, but it will also help keep your bankroll growing. If you are having a bad session, try not to let it get to your head and just continue working on your skills.
One of the most important things to remember is that your opponent will often be bluffing when they have a strong hand. This means that you should be aggressive with your strong hands but not so aggressive that you are putting yourself at risk of losing a large sum of money on a weak one.
Lastly, one of the most important things to remember is that you should play in position. This is very important because when you are in position you can see your opponents’ actions before you have to act. This will give you key insights into their strength of hand and can make your decision-making much easier.