Poker is a card game in which players compete against each other by placing chips or cash in a pot based on their own decisions and the overall expected value of those actions. While some elements of the game are based on luck, such as the cards dealt, most decisions are influenced by a combination of probability, psychology and game theory.

A good starting point for a strategy is to develop a solid range of hands that you play aggressively. Pocket pairs, suited aces, and broadway hands are all great examples of strong starting hands.

Getting into position (playing as the first player to act) is also crucial. You can then see your opponents’ actions before you and make more informed decisions. Playing in position will also allow you to control the size of the pot.

Bluffing is an important part of any poker strategy, but it must be done wisely. A big mistake is to bluff every street with a marginal hand. Instead, bluff when it makes sense and use it to put your opponent in difficult spots with weak hands.

Finally, reading about poker can also be very helpful. Many popular poker books are written by players and coaches, and can give you a glimpse into the thinking of the best players in the world. Try to find books that are more recent, as strategies have evolved significantly in the last few years. You can then apply the lessons learned in the book to your own game, and see if they improve your results.