Poker is a game where players make decisions under uncertainty. The uncertainty is not only about the cards that will be played, but also about how other players will play those cards and what other factors will affect their decisions. To successfully make decisions under uncertainty, you need to understand and estimate probabilities and expected values. The best poker players are able to do this quickly and effectively.
Poker players learn to control their emotions and have a high level of psychological maturity. They know that they will lose some hands and that they need to stick to their strategy in order to win. They also know that chasing losses can lead to losing more money than they can afford to lose.
They also know how to make good money by playing a strong hand, folding a weak one and making bets to price weaker hands out of the pot. They have the patience to wait for a situation where poker odds are in their favour and they use aggression when they have a good hand.
In addition to this, experienced poker players have a strong understanding of probability and game theory. They are able to use this knowledge to improve their decision making under uncertainty and to maximise the value of their own hands. They are also able to read their opponents and make educated bets based on the information they have available. Lastly, they understand how to play in position and the importance of bluffing.