Poker is a card game played by two or more players. Depending on the variant, it may be played with as few as two cards and as many as 14. The object of the game is to win a pot, which is the sum of all bets made in a given round. The winner is determined after the final betting phase, when all remaining players reveal their hands.

To be successful at poker, you must learn to read tells, understand your opponents’ ranges and how much they’re willing to call, and know what type of bluffing strategy to employ in any given situation. You also need to master a variety of game theory concepts, including probability, EV estimation, and combos.

The best way to improve your poker skills is to play often and watch experienced players. Studying the strategies of experienced players can help you develop your own winning style. When observing the gameplay of experienced players, pay attention to their mistakes and how they’re corrected. Additionally, make note of their successful moves and learn the reasoning behind those decisions.

Another effective practice technique is to start at lower stakes. This can help minimize financial risk and give you the freedom to experiment with different strategies without feeling pressured to make quick decisions. Using hand history tracking software or taking notes during your practice sessions is also an excellent way to assess your decisions and identify areas for improvement.