Poker is a card game where players place bets in the middle of the table, called the pot. The highest ranking hand wins the pot at the end of betting rounds. The game is played with poker chips, with each color and denomination denoting a different value. Each player must purchase a certain number of chips at the start of a hand (this is called ‘buying in’). The player who has the highest value chip at the end of the betting round wins the pot.
A high percentage of the game’s outcome is decided by chance, but good poker players make smart decisions that maximize their winning chances. This requires patience, reading other players, and adaptability. It also takes a strong commitment to study and play the right games. Choosing to play a fun game won’t always be the best strategy for your bankroll or provide the most learning opportunities.
In addition to the mental toughness required, poker requires a good understanding of probability and game theory. If you’re interested in learning more about these aspects of the game, consider seeking out a coach or enlisting the help of a mentor. A great example is Konnikova, who benefited from the mentorship of Erik Seidel—the Michael Jordan of poker—and improved her win rate exponentially over a short period of time. Similarly, Larry Bird once said that the key to his success was simply staying on the path, even when it felt like an uphill battle.