Poker is a game of skill and strategy, but it also requires luck. By learning the skills and traits that top players exhibit, you can improve your poker game and enjoy it more.

Mental Toughness

Poker can be a mentally taxing game, and professional players understand that losing is part of the game. Watch videos on YouTube of Phil Ivey taking bad beats, and notice how he doesn’t get too upset or show any signs of frustration.

Stamina

If you play poker often, you should make sure you’re in the best physical condition possible to handle a long session. This will help you play your best over time and avoid fatigue or irritation that can lead to poor play.

Know Your Hands

Knowing what your hands are and where they fit in the board can make a big difference in your play. For example, if you have pocket kings or queens on the flop and an ace comes in, it can spell doom for your hand.

Learn About Pot Odds and Percentages

Whether you’re playing at home or in a cardroom, poker is a game that involves betting rounds. Each round starts with a bet of one or more chips, which the player to the left may call, raise, or drop (or “fold”).

After each betting round, all of the remaining bets are placed in a central pot. The person who holds the strongest hand wins the pot. If no one has the highest hand, the pot is split between all players.