Poker is a card game that can be played with two or more people. The game involves betting between each player and the person with the best hand wins. The game has a long history and many different variations.
The game requires a good deal of skill but also relies heavily on luck. It is important to know that no matter how well you play there will be days when you get crushed and lose a lot of money. The key is to remain mentally tough and not let those losses destroy your confidence or make you want to quit the game. Watch videos on YouTube of Phil Ivey taking bad beats and note how he never shows any sign of anger or disappointment. That is the way to play poker if you want to be a professional.
There are a number of great books available on the subject of poker strategy. However, it is important to study ONE concept at a time. Too many players bounce around in their studies and end up never understanding any one aspect of the game. Try to focus on ONE topic per week.
For example, if you are studying the game of poker and want to learn more about variance and balance, check out this book: Poker Theory: A Guide for the Professional by Matt Janda. This is a highly complex book that dives deep into the math of poker including concepts like balance, frequencies, and ranges. It is a highly recommended read for anyone serious about learning the game of poker.