A game of poker is played between two or more players and involves betting in a communal pot. The cards are dealt face-down, and the betting round begins with each player placing an amount of money into the pot in accordance with their perceived chances of winning the hand. In a poker hand, a player’s actions are chosen on the basis of probability theory, psychology and game theory. While the outcome of each individual hand significantly involves chance, a poker player’s long-run results are based on their decision-making.

Generally, it’s best to play only with money you can afford to lose. If you’re a beginner, start with small stakes and gradually increase your stakes as your skills improve. It’s also a good idea to track your wins and losses. This will help you figure out how much to bet and how often.

Learn how to read other players and watch for tells. Observe their nervous habits and the way they handle their chips. For example, a player who always raises when holding pocket kings or queens may be holding an unbeatable hand.

Learn the game’s basic rules and strategy. Understand how to fold, call and raise. In addition, be aware of the different types of poker hands. For example, a full house consists of three matching cards of one rank and two matching cards of another rank. A straight contains five cards that run consecutively in rank, and a flush includes any four cards of the same suit. The highest card breaks ties.