Poker is a card game whose rules are based on bluffing, misdirection, and probability. It is played by two or more players and involves betting between them (or against the dealer) before the cards are revealed. Money is placed in the pot only when a player believes the bet has positive expected value or is trying to bluff others for strategic reasons. The majority of the time, winning a hand in poker relies on skill and not luck.

The divide between break-even beginner players and big-time winners is much smaller than people think. In fact, it usually comes down to making a few simple adjustments to the way they view the game. In the long run, these changes will help them start winning more often.

A key component to a winning poker strategy is playing in late position. This allows you to see your opponents’ actions before you have to make a decision. In addition, it allows you to scout your opponents for tells and learn what hands they are playing. If an opponent is constantly calling when you raise, it’s likely they are holding a strong hand.

You are involved in a multi-way pot with a mediocre hand, say, middle-pair or top pair with a terrible kicker. You consider making a tough call, but in the end, you reluctantly muck your cards. The next card is dealt, and it’s the one that would have made your monster hand or the nuts. The other players begin betting and raising, and you stare at the mountain of chips you could have won if you had risked it all.