Poker is a game of chance, but it also requires a lot of skill. Advanced players make decisions based on probability, psychology and other factors rather than just their gut feelings. Beginners often act out their instincts automatically and make costly mistakes. So if you want to become a better player, here are some poker tips that can help you improve.

Learn to read other players and watch for tells. A tell is a sign that someone is nervous, such as fiddling with their chips or wearing a ring. It can also be the way they play their cards or their expressions. Learn to spot these signs and use them to your advantage.

Don’t call every bet, especially if you have a strong hand. You’re throwing away money by calling when you could have won if you folded. This is called “costing your hand” and can be extremely costly in the long run.

Be patient and wait for a good time to call. This will let you see more of the flop and force weaker hands to fold, increasing your chances of winning the pot.

Never gamble more than you are willing to lose. It’s important to stick to this rule because it will save you a lot of money in the long run. It’s also a good idea to track your wins and losses so you can see how much you are winning or losing. If you’re making a large loss, it might be time to quit the game.