Poker is a card game where players form a hand of cards and then compete to win the pot – all of the money that is bet during a hand. The person with the highest ranked hand when the hands are shown wins the pot.

Before each hand, the dealer will shuffle and deal the cards. Each player then buys in for a certain amount of chips, usually by saying “call” to match the previous raise. Each chip is worth a different amount. Typically, a white chip is worth one dollar, while a red and blue chip are worth 10 or 25 dollars.

When betting, it is important to remember that your opponents will be able to tell if you are holding a strong hand. Even if you have pocket kings on the flop, an ace can spell disaster for your hand if the board is full of suited connections. A good way to disguise the strength of your hand is to bet aggressively on the flop, forcing weaker hands out of the pot.

It is also important to learn and understand the rules of poker before playing. You can find many online resources that cover the basics of the game, including tips for beginner players. As you gain more experience, you can gradually open up your hand ranges and mix up your play style. Regardless of whether you are playing for fun or trying to make a living from the game, you must be in a happy and healthy mental state to perform at your best.