Poker is a card game of skill, but it also requires a strong mental toughness. If you’re not able to handle losing, you’re not ready for the game of poker. Watch videos on YouTube of Phil Ivey taking bad beats and see how he doesn’t let them crush his confidence. In addition to being able to keep your emotions in check, you’ll need discipline and perseverance to become a good poker player.

To make money at poker, you must be committed to playing the best games possible. This means choosing the correct limits and game variations for your bankroll, and finding tables with players that you have a significant skill edge over. It’s important to remember that winning poker is a long-term endeavor, so you should be patient and stay focused on the big picture.

Before the betting starts, the dealer deals three cards face-up on the table. These are called the flop. Players then have the chance to call or raise.

Top players fast-play their strong hands, as this builds the pot and helps to chase off opponents who might have drawn into a better hand. When a player checks, it usually means they have a weak hand and are trying to figure out whether to call or fold.