Poker is a card game where the object is to create the best five-card hand possible, or convince other players that you have the best hand (even if you don’t). While learning the game requires an investment of time and effort, starting at lower stakes minimizes financial risk, making it easier to experiment with strategies and learn from your mistakes.

Bluffing is less common than it’s portrayed on TV, but a smart bluff can help you win big pots when used sparingly. Remember, however, that a bluff gives away bits of information to your opponents, which they can use to figure out how strong or weak you are.

Taking notes and using poker software are excellent ways to improve your game. It’s also important to analyze your decisions, good and bad, in order to determine how they align with optimal strategy. Some players even discuss their decision-making processes with other players for a more objective view of their strengths and weaknesses.

It’s crucial to play only with money you can afford to lose. A good rule of thumb is to be able to afford to lose about 200 bets at the highest limit you’re playing. Having a larger bankroll allows you to play longer hands and make more profitable decisions. It’s also a great idea to spend some time observing the play of experienced players. By studying their decisions, you can learn from their errors and adapt elements of their gameplay into your own strategy.