If you’re thinking of playing poker online for the first time, there are some things to keep in mind. First of all, make sure you’re registering with a licensed, regulated site. That will give you confidence that your funds are safe, and that the software is operating correctly. Most online poker sites will also have play money tables where you can practice without risking any real money.

Secondly, start with games you know. This will help you build up a bankroll and get used to the pace of an online game. It’s important to remember that online poker is a much faster game than live poker. You’ll be dealt more hands per hour and you’ll have to act fast. Make sure you’re comfortable with the speed of play before you move up to real-money games.

Thirdly, learn how to read other players. This is a crucial part of the game and will help you win a lot of money. In fact, many poker professionals play the game by reading tells and other cues from their opponents. This is especially true when you play against aggressive players. They will often raise early and bet a lot with their strong hands. On the other hand, players with weaker hands need to be patient and read their opponent’s actions to see if they can steal the pot.

You should always be aware of how other players are betting, calling and raising preflop. A good way to do this is to use your notes feature. This is a great tool that allows you to take notes on your opponents and it will show up next time you play them. This will help you to understand how your opponents are playing the game and what types of hands they have.

Finally, don’t be afraid to lose a few hands when you move up the stakes. It’s completely normal to run bad over a small sample size, especially when you’re new to the game. If you’re losing more than you’re winning, it’s a sign that you need to move back down the stakes and grind out your loss.

In short, while poker does have a large element of luck built right into it, you can become a long term money winner if you’re willing to work hard. Keep learning, practicing and having fun! Then, when you do get lucky, it’ll be a bonus. But don’t let it ruin your day, or your week, or even your year! The math will sort it all out in the long run.