Learn the Basics of Poker

Poker is hugely popular and for good reason: it’s a social game with a deep element of strategy to keep the brain engaged; you can play it for money or just for fun; it’s accessible to all skill levels. But learning how to play can be a daunting task, especially when you’re just starting out.

Luckily, there are many resources available to get you started on your poker journey. Online platforms like YouTube offer tons of educational videos that help to explain the rules and poker basics in an easy to digest format. Some of our favorite channels include Doug Polk, Joe Ingram, Andrew Neeme and Brad Owen.

It’s important to understand poker rules and strategy from the beginning, but you’ll also need to practice to develop quick instincts in the game. One way to do this is to watch experienced players and observe how they react in different situations. This will give you a feel for the game and let you build your own strategies going forward.

Another key aspect to consider is your position in the betting line. It’s important to act last so that you can use your information about your opponent’s holdings to make cheap, effective bluffs. You’ll also need to know when to fold – it’s not always best to call someone with a strong hand. Make sure you’re only gambling with an amount that you’re willing to lose and track your wins and losses if you start playing regularly.