Poker is a game of chance in which players form hands of cards to win the pot, which is the sum total of all bets placed during the betting round. The goal is to have the highest-ranking hand at the end of each betting round. The first player to do so wins the pot.

The rules of the game are based on probability, psychology, and game theory. While the outcome of any individual hand may involve considerable chance, a good poker player makes decisions that maximize their expected value over time, incorporating game theory and other strategic considerations into their play.

Mixing it up at the table is a big part of poker strategy, and one of the best ways to improve your game is to experiment with different strategies in practice. Try raising your own preflop bet on a flopped draw against an opponent who tends to call, or three-bet in the small blind with a suited ace when you expect your opponents to be tight.

Position is also important, as a player in late position can be more selective in the hands that they choose to play. It is not a good idea to limp into many pots, and it is usually preferable to fold early in most situations. If you do raise, it should be to price the weaker hands out of the pot.

Developing a solid poker strategy can help you improve your game, whether you’re playing in a cash game or tournament. A solid strategy determines how you should handle each phase of a session or tournament and how much risk to take. In addition, it can help you manage your bankroll more effectively.