The game of poker is a gambling one, where players put money into the pot and the highest hand wins. The game is based on math and information, and the better you are at interpreting the information you have, the more successful you will be.
Practice and watch other players play to develop quick instincts. Observe how they react to various situations and then try to mimic those reactions, incorporating them into your own play. This will help you become a more natural and effective player without having to resort to memorizing complicated systems.
Keep a journal of your play. This will allow you to see the areas where you are making mistakes and improve. The exact format of the journal can be anything you want, but it should be something that enables you to track your progress.
Don’t get attached to good hands. Even the best pocket kings can be dominated by an ace on the flop, and it is always wise to consider folding if you have a hand that will not win in any way after the flop.
Learn to read your opponents and their tells. This will enable you to make more informed betting decisions. Look for signs that your opponent is nervous, such as widened eyes or fidgeting with their hands. It is also helpful to learn how to spot body language tics, such as drumming fingers or bouncing their legs, that indicate they are holding a strong hand.