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Step 1
As Sklansky's book explains, the concept is simple. Every time you play your hand the way you would if your opponents were playing with their hands face up, they "lose" and you "win".
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Step 2
Also, each time your opponents play their hands differently than they would have if your hand was face up, you "win" and they "lose".
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Step 3
You may have to read that a few times to let it sink in. I know I did. Think about it though...if poker was played with all cards exposed at all times, then all decisions would come down to math. So, your job when you're playing poker (online, in a casino, or in your neighbor's basement) is to play as close as you can to what it would be like if you could see the other players' cards. If only you could carry the book with you as a reminder...
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Step 4
Now I know this may seem easier said than done, but with plenty of practice, you can begin to recognize various clues that will help you determine what types of hands your opponents may be playing. The better you get at reading hands, the more accurately you can play as the theorem suggests. There are plenty of other articles and books that can help you learn those skills too.
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Step 5
This theorem is so simple, yet it can be very difficult to grasp and frustrating to implement. The problem comes in when you are able to read your opponents hand, play your cards appropriately, but still lose the pot. You must remember that poker is a game that does not always immediately reward the "correct" play. However, if you stick to your guns and consistently follow this theorem, over time you will win more than you lose. The books written by the pros do not lie.
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Step 6
Now do yourself a favor, search for the Theory of Poker book and start studying!
