Poker is a card game in which players form a hand based on the ranking of their cards and then try to win the pot, which is the total amount of all bets placed during a betting round. In order to claim the pot, a player must have the highest-ranking hand at the end of each round.
Poker can be played with any number of players, although it is usually best for 6-8 people. One or more forced bets are made before the deal begins, either an ante or blind bet (sometimes both). The dealer shuffles, cuts, and then deals each player one card. Players may choose to raise, call, or fold their bets. The first player to act after the deal begins the first round of betting.
In most forms of Poker, the highest-ranking hand wins the pot. The rank of a hand is determined by its suits in ascending order: spades, hearts, diamonds, and clubs (highest to lowest). In the event that two or more players have the same high card, the tie is broken by the suit that is higher in value.
The key to becoming a great Poker player is learning how to make quick instinctive decisions. Practice and watch experienced players to learn their style of play. Be observant of your opponent’s tells, too – this includes the way they fiddle with their chips or ring, but also how they react to specific situations.