Poker is a game of risk-reward. It’s a table-changer that can turn a loser into a winner and vice versa. This teaches players to be prepared for defeat, which is a valuable life lesson that can be applied to other areas of their lives.
Poker also improves a player’s critical thinking skills. This is because when you play poker, you must be able to evaluate your own hand and assess whether it’s worth playing or not. In addition, poker is an excellent way to work out odds in your head. The more you play, the better at this you will become.
In addition to working out odds, a good poker player needs to be able to read opponents well. This is because it is essential to classify each opponent into one of four basic player types; LAG’s, TAG’s, LP Fish and super tight Nits. Once you know the tendencies of each type, you can adapt your strategy to exploit them.
Moreover, a good poker player must be able to switch their game plan quickly. This is because if your opponent gets a clue about your strategy, you must be ready to switch to another plan, and fast. You should always have a plan B, C, D, and E at the ready to avoid getting caught out. This is why it’s important to watch experienced players closely, as they have the best instincts and can switch their game at a moment’s notice.
