Online poker is a game of skill over the long term and top players spend as much time studying their game as they do playing. Whether you want to join an online poker coaching site, network with successful players or brutally analyze your own play after every session, the effort will pay off.

If you’re new to the game, look for sites that offer a variety of games, including tournaments and Sit & Go’s. They also have large player pools, which mean softer opponents and more opportunities to win.

When you find a poker site, download the software and create an account. Choose a screen name that will stick and avoid creating multiple accounts as this is against the rules at most poker sites. Then deposit some money using your preferred method. Depending on your jurisdiction, you may need to submit documentation before you receive your money but this is usually a fast and painless process.

Withdrawals are just as easy as deposits and most poker sites make it a point to process them quickly. They’re also secure as most are licensed in your country and operate under strict regulation to ensure that your funds and personal information are safe. In some cases, your poker site may request additional documentation such as a scan of your ID or utility bill to ensure that you’re who you say you are. However, this is a relatively common practice among top-rated poker sites.