Poker hands
This is not to say that reading poker hands is an absolutely vital part of playing poker. Indeed in rooms with low stakes it might be discouraged at times, as the players involved are typically lacking in skills and can prove unpredictable. But in higher level games opponents will indeed keep a steady gaze on how you play your game, and so you must be prepared to do the same. Here are a few tips for doing so.
1. Watch the betting during the early rounds. Try and figure out what your opponent's hands are by watching their betting, not to mention the results of that round. Keep track of any raises or checks, and who makes them.
2. Stick to one table. It's too hard to keep track of two or more tables' worth of hands, and you're more likely to forget what happened or get the actions of the games confused.
3. Keep an eye on the results of showdowns even if you've already folded. Note how aggressive certain players are, especially depending on what you think they may be holding in their poker hands. Never lose your focus on the game, regardless of whether you're in or out; every action, every flip of the card or raise or fold can give you a bit of information about an opponent's playing style and, ultimately, what poker cards they may be holding.
4. Watch for new players. If somebody fresh sits down at a table they'll want to get a piece of the pot. You may be able to encourage them to bid on a weak hand and heighten your own chances of winning a substantial pot.
It will take lots of practice, but in the end reading poker hands will help you win far more rounds.