Poker is a game of chance when you don’t bet, but with betting it becomes a much more skill-based game. The game involves raising or folding based on the cards you have and what other players do. It is a game of mental toughness, as well, because a bad beat can crush the confidence of even the best players. You need to learn how to control your emotions at the table and make tough, rational decisions.

One of the most important skills in poker is reading your opponents. This can be done by watching how they move their chips and their body language. It is also a good idea to discuss your strategy with other players for a more objective look at what you are doing wrong and how to improve.

Another important aspect of poker is position. This means playing your strong value hands in position, so you can see what other players do before deciding on your next move. This can help you get more value out of your strong hands and also prevent your opponents from seeing your bluffs as often.

In addition to position, it is crucial to have a solid bankroll management plan in place. This way you can play for long sessions and not be worried about losing your buy-in. You should only play with money you are comfortable with losing, and you should never let your ego dictate your stakes at the tables.