Poker is a card game in which players place bets to win the pot. There are a few basic rules that must be followed when playing poker. Each player places an ante (an initial bet) into the pot before they are dealt two cards. After the antes are placed there is usually a betting interval. The player to the dealer’s left bets first.

A pair of kings, for example, beats a hand of 8-4 in most circumstances, but the ace on the flop can spell disaster for your pocket kings. Don’t get too attached to your good hands, however, as a strong board will quickly destroy your best hand.

During the betting period you can say “call” or “raise” to put in your chips/money to match the last player’s bet. You can also fold, which means that you are done with the hand and will not bet again.

You should never bet more than you can afford to lose. If you are a beginner, it’s a good idea to play only with money that you’re willing to lose and keep track of your wins and losses.

Another important skill in poker is reading the other players’ tells. This includes their eye movements, idiosyncrasies, betting behavior and more. For example, a player who frequently calls but raises often may be holding an excellent hand. On the other hand, a player who raises early in the hand may be bluffing. Knowing this gives you the edge to make smarter decisions during the game.