A good poker player is disciplined and committed to making the best decisions in each hand. They know that folding is a crucial part of their strategy, and they work to overcome cognitive biases such as the fear of missing out and the desire to prove the strength of their hands. They also commit to wisely choosing their limits and game variations to maximize profits.
The top players have a number of skills, including patience and the ability to read other players. They are also able to calculate pot odds and percentages quickly, and they understand when to fold. They also have the mental toughness to accept losses without losing their confidence, even when they’ve made a mistake at the table.
One way to improve your poker knowledge is to study the game by watching experienced players. This will expose you to different playing styles and strategies, allowing you to develop your own approach. You can also learn from their mistakes and analyze the reasoning behind their decisions. It’s also a good idea to watch for “tells,” which are nonverbal actions that can indicate the strength of a hand.
In addition to studying other players, you can also get a better understanding of poker by reading books and watching YouTube videos. You should pay particular attention to how the top players handle bad beats. For example, Phil Ivey is known for not getting upset when he loses a big hand, and you can see how his demeanor benefits his game by watching him play in the World Series of Poker.