The game of poker involves a great deal of luck, but when betting is involved, the skill factor rises significantly. A good understanding of how to make the most of your skills and psychology is key to being a successful poker player.

One of the biggest mistakes players make is putting too much stock in their luck. Variance is unavoidable, and no one is immune to bad beats, but whining about them will only suck the joy out of your poker experience. The best way to mitigate variance is through bankroll management, so that when you do inevitably lose, it doesn’t threaten your ability to play poker in the future.

When you do have a strong hand, don’t let it lie! Bet aggressively on the flop and force weaker hands out of the pot. A well placed bluff can also be an effective way to win a hand, especially if your opponent is holding an Ace!

Don’t Get Too Attached to Good Hands

It’s very easy to fall into the trap of getting too attached to your strong pocket pairs and draws. You see them in your hand, and they feel like mountains of money, so you’re reluctant to muck them. Then, of course, the next card comes down – a big one – and everyone else shoves in their stacks. Now you’re staring at a mountain of chips, wondering what went wrong. This is what happens when you don’t have a plan for how to handle strong hands.