Poker is a card game of skill, psychology and chance. Unlike other games that involve bets, it is not purely a game of luck, but also involves weighting your chances to maximise profit.

After players have been dealt their 2 hole cards, a round of betting begins. The players can either call (match the last bet) or raise it, or check (pass on their turn to act).

Once all players have raised, 2 additional cards are dealt face up on the table – known as the flop. This opens up more possibilities for players, and another round of checking, calling, raising or folding takes place.

The best poker players use their knowledge of probability and statistics to maximise their chances of winning. They also learn to read their opponents and understand how they are likely to react to the cards they are dealt. They use this information to exploit their opponent’s weaknesses, while also protecting themselves from being bluffed by stronger hands.

It is important to play within your bankroll, and not risk more than you can afford to lose. It is also important to be prepared to accept defeat, and not get frustrated or overly confident if you are losing. This will help you to make better decisions, and avoid making bad mistakes that can cost you money and ruin your poker experience.