Do poker skills come naturally?

[Grid3004]

While some people might have natural tendencies that give them an edge in poker, like being good with numbers or reading people, I believe poker is primarily a learned skill. Even the most 'naturally talented' players need to put in significant time to refine their game.

Here’s why poker isn’t just about natural ability:

1. Complex Strategies: From understanding ranges to mastering concepts like ICM or GTO, poker requires a deep understanding of strategy that no one is born with.
2. Pattern Recognition: Spotting trends in opponents’ behavior or betting patterns is a skill developed through repetition and experience.
3. Discipline and Patience: These qualities might not come naturally, but they’re critical for success in poker. Learning to fold good-looking hands or wait for the right spots takes practice.
4. Knowledge of Situations: Every poker hand is unique, and adapting to situations like different stack sizes, player types, and table dynamics isn’t intuitive – it’s learned.

In short, poker rewards hard work, study, and experience far more than raw talent. What about you? Do you think natural ability or effort is more important for success in poker?

 

[Jean-Guy]

While some people might have natural tendencies that give them an edge in poker, like being good with numbers or reading people, I believe poker is primarily a learned skill. Even the most 'naturally talented' players need to put in significant time to refine their game.

Here’s why poker isn’t just about natural ability:

1. Complex Strategies: From understanding ranges to mastering concepts like ICM or GTO, poker requires a deep understanding of strategy that no one is born with.
2. Pattern Recognition: Spotting trends in opponents’ behavior or betting patterns is a skill developed through repetition and experience.
3. Discipline and Patience: These qualities might not come naturally, but they’re critical for success in poker. Learning to fold good-looking hands or wait for the right spots takes practice.
4. Knowledge of Situations: Every poker hand is unique, and adapting to situations like different stack sizes, player types, and table dynamics isn’t intuitive – it’s learned.

In short, poker rewards hard work, study, and experience far more than raw talent. What about you? Do you think natural ability or effort is more important for success in poker?

Some people like to copypaste.

 

[Jean-Guy]

I think Poker skills don’t come naturally to most people – they’re developed through practice, study, and experience. While some traits like logical thinking, emotional control, or risk management might feel more intuitive to certain individuals, mastering the game requires deliberate effort.

Here’s why:

1. Understanding Math: Concepts like pot odds, implied odds, and equity aren’t things most people inherently know. They have to be learned and applied over time.
2. Reading Opponents: Developing the ability to interpret betting patterns, body language (in live games), or timing online takes a lot of practice.
3. Adaptability: Every table and opponent is different, so even natural talent won’t help unless you can adjust your strategy on the fly.
4. Emotional Resilience: Handling bad beats and staying focused during long sessions isn’t easy, even for people with strong emotional control.

That said, some people might pick up the game faster due to existing skills, like quick decision-making or strong analytical abilities. But to truly excel at poker, even those individuals need to put in the work.

What’s your take? Do you think natural talent plays a big role, or is poker more about effort and dedication?

Copypasting?!

 

[sibkaz]

Not everyone has a mathematical mindset... And not all mathematicians are good at psychology... Remember Stu Anger...

 

[Jean-Guy]

He had some life issues, two put it mildly, but Stuey also had an IQ of 160. The Jewish genius played cards before he could walk.

“When the cards are dealt I want to destroy people.” And so he did. Alas, Stuey also destroyed himself.