Poker is a game of chance, but it also involves a fair amount of strategy. There are several different ways to play poker, and each one has its own rules. However, there are some key strategies that are common to all versions of the game.

First and foremost, never play a hand you can’t win. This goes for mediocre hands as well as big ones. It’s tempting to chase a hero draw, but you should realize that chasing cards will cost you money. This is especially true in a game with strong players who are able to recognize bluffs.

Another key concept is pot control. Being the last player to act gives you a say in how much the pot will cost, which can be beneficial for your strong hands. You can inflate the pot value by betting aggressively, or you can call to keep the pot size under control.

Lastly, you should try to gauge your opponents’ strength of hand by reading their bets. In live games, this is often done by analyzing body language for tells, but online players must rely on analyzing their opponents’ behavior and habits over time.

Poker can be a lot of fun, even when you’re losing. Remember that everyone has to start somewhere, and there are many former amateur players who have made it to the pro circuit. Keep playing, study the game, and don’t let your losses get you down. In the end, you’ll find that poker is a lot more fun than you ever imagined!