Poker is a card game in which players place chips (representing money) into a pot. Each player has a turn to place bets and raise the amount of money in the pot. After the first player places bets, other players can choose to call (that is, accept the bet), fold (give up and lose the money they have already bet) or raise the bet even more. This process continues on the pre-flop, flop and river.

The decision-making process in poker is based on probabilities and game theory. However, there is always uncertainty as you don’t know what your opponents are holding or how they will bet on their hand. As a result, poker is a great way to learn how to make decisions under uncertainty. It’s a skill that you can apply to all aspects of life.

One of the most difficult things to master in poker is calculating your opponent’s ranges. This is a key part of being able to spot their tells and bluff effectively. This workbook will help you memorize the important formulas, internalize them and improve your intuition so you can make better decisions at the table.

Another important aspect of poker is learning how to read your opponents. This includes observing their body language, how they play their cards and how they bet. You can also practice your observation skills by watching videos of high-level players online. You can find them on sites such as YouTube or Red Chip Poker.

When you’re at a poker table, you need to be confident and assertive. If you’re not, your opponents will bet into you when they should be checking. This will cost you a lot of money.

Poker requires a lot of brain power and it’s not unusual for players to feel tired at the end of a game or tournament. However, this is a good thing as it shows you’ve exerted a lot of energy. It also means you have the discipline to stay at the table until you get a good hand.

Many people believe that poker is a waste of time and money, but there are a number of benefits that come with playing the game. For example, it’s a great way to develop critical thinking skills, learning to celebrate wins and accept losses, and it can also teach you how to manage your emotions. It also helps you to be more independent and teaches you how to set goals for yourself. This makes it a great game for people who are looking for a change in their lives or want to take their career to the next level.