Poker is a game that requires both luck and skill to win. Unlike some games where you are forced to put money into the pot, in poker it is a player’s choice to call or raise a bet based on their expected value for their particular hand. The best players learn to make this decision on the basis of probability, psychology and game theory.
The game of poker has many variants, rules and strategies but there are some basic principles that are universal to all games. Generally, each player must ante something (amount varies by game, our games are typically a nickel) to be dealt cards and then players bet into the middle of the table called the “pot.” The highest hand wins the pot.
A hand in poker is a grouping of five cards that you have, either from your own deck or the community cards in the center of the table. A high hand is two distinct pairs of cards and a fifth card to break ties. A straight is five cards in numerical order and a flush is five cards of the same suit. A full house is three of a kind and two pair.
You must always be aware of your opponents and their betting patterns. Almost all poker is played bluffing, so knowing your opponent’s tendencies is vital to making sound decisions at the table. A good way to improve your knowledge of the game is to play with experienced players and take notes on their betting behavior. This can help you identify players that are conservative and fold early, as well as those who bet with a lot of force.
Another great way to improve your poker skills is by taking a class. A good teacher will point out your mistakes and teach you how to read other players. A good coach will also teach you how to manage your bankroll and provide a fresh perspective on the game.
Getting to know the game is a long process but it is worth it in the end. It takes time and practice to get to a place where you can consistently make money. Until then, just try to keep learning and don’t lose your shirt!
If you are playing EP you should be tight and open only with strong hands. As you move up the positions you can loosen up your range but be sure to still be tight pre-flop. You should also be raising and betting yourself more to pressure your opponents. This will allow you to increase the value of your hand in the long run.