Poker is a card game played by two or more players. The object is to win the pot, which is the total of all bets made during a hand. The game can be played with any number of players from 2 to 14, although the ideal number is six or seven. There are many variants of poker, each with different rules and etiquette.

Variance is an unavoidable aspect of poker, but there are a few things you can do to reduce its impact on your bankroll. First and foremost, you need to play smart. This means avoiding blunders like over-betting with weak hands and playing too much trash.

Another big factor is understanding ranges. This means being able to put an opponent on a range of hands that they could have and working out how likely it is that you will beat their hand. A lot of players make the mistake of trying to put their opponents on a single hand, which is nearly impossible.

Finally, you need to be able to identify and overcome leaks in your game. This is especially important when you are at a table with strong players. They will often try to outplay you with mediocre hands like top-pair and middle-pair with a bad kicker.

Finally, poker should always be a fun experience, whether you play it as a hobby or a profession. You will perform best when you are happy, and it’s important to only engage in this mentally intensive game when you feel that way. Otherwise, you’ll waste a lot of time and money.