Poker is a game of cards played in a betting circle with the goal to win a pot. Each player is dealt 2 cards and there are mandatory bets called blinds placed into the pot by the players to the left of the dealer. After the blinds are put in there is a round of betting.

To succeed at Poker you must develop several skills including discipline and determination. You also need to choose the best limits and game variations for your bankroll. In addition, you need to study your opponents and watch them play to develop fast instincts.

A big mistake is to get involved in a big pot with a weak hand, for example, middle-pair or top-pair with a terrible kicker. This is a sure way to lose big. You’ll be maddeningly frustrated when the guy across from you spikes an ace against your queens and rakes in a huge pot.

To avoid this trap you need to be in position more often. When you are in position, you will be able to determine if your opponent has a good or bad hand before you call his raise. You’ll also be able to control the size of the pot by checking first. When you check, aggressive players will be more likely to call you with their strong hands. This will keep you from being bluffed by them and it will save you money. By playing in position more often you’ll improve your odds of winning more pots.