Poker is a card game that involves betting between two or more players. The player with the highest ranked hand wins the pot. The game is incredibly addictive and can be very profitable for experienced players who know how to play it well.

One of the biggest mistakes beginner poker players make is making decisions automatically, rather than thinking about what they are doing before they act. This can lead to costly mistakes and a quick loss of money. When playing poker, it’s important to take your time and think about the cards, your position at the table, and what your opponents are doing.

Another mistake that beginners often make is not folding enough hands. This can be a huge mistake because it allows your opponents to see that you have a strong hand, which can make them more likely to call your bluffs. You should always fold if you don’t have a good hand, and raise when you do have a strong one.

It’s also important to play in position, which means that you act before your opponents do. This gives you a better idea of their hand strength and makes it easier to make the right decision. In addition, playing in position can help you control the size of the pot. This can be helpful when you have a marginally made hand and want to avoid adding money to the pot. By putting in a small bet, you can get other players to fold and minimize your losses.