Poker is a game that requires quick instincts and the ability to adapt to the situation. It is a game where your hands are often good or bad only in relation to what the other players are holding. For example, a pair of kings off the deal might be a solid hand, but it will lose to Broadway (Ace+card outside the four ranks) 82% of the time on the flop.
Once all the players have their 2 hole cards, a round of betting starts. The round is initiated by 2 mandatory bets called blinds placed into the pot by the two players to the left of the dealer. Players can fold, call or raise during this round.
The flop, turn and river are the community cards that everyone can use to make a hand. After the flop is dealt, there is another round of betting. A player can call (match the last person’s bet), raise (put more money into the pot) or fold.
There are many different variations of poker, but the best way to improve is to play and study. The key is to not focus too much on one or the other as this could skew your learning and development. Choose a training tool that is designed for this and you will find the process of improving your poker skills much faster and easier. Keep in mind that it will take some time before you start winning, so don’t give up if things aren’t going your way right away.