Poker is a card game where players bet money into a pot, and then try to form the best hand according to the rules of the game. The winner claims the pot at the end of each betting interval. Players can call, raise or fold their hands in turn.

Developing a winning poker strategy is a long process. It involves careful self-examination, taking notes and even discussing your play with other players for an objective view of your strengths and weaknesses. A good strategy is built on a foundation of skill and should always be tweaked to improve the player’s chances of success.

Advanced players are able to visualize the entire range of their opponent’s hands in any given situation. This allows them to make a more informed decision about whether to play the hand or not. They also understand that their opponents may change their range depending on the type of player they are.

You need to keep your opponents guessing about what you have in your hand, and you need a range of different strategies to do so. If they know what you have, they’ll never call your bluffs, and your big hands will go unrewarded. Learn to read your opponents’ tells by observing their eye movements, idiosyncrasies, hand gestures and betting behavior. A player who frequently calls and then suddenly makes a huge raise may be holding a big hand. This is a player who you should avoid playing against.