Poker is a card game with many variations and requires considerable skill and strategy to win. It’s not just about the cards in your hand but about predicting the actions of other players, and being able to decide whether to call, raise or fold based on that information. It’s also a game where luck plays a huge role. It’s not uncommon for the best hand to lose, and even experienced players can have a few “Feels bad man” moments.

Each player gets 2 hole cards. There is a round of betting where the first two players to the left place mandatory bets called blinds into the pot. Then the dealer deals 3 community cards face up on the table that anyone can use (the flop). Another round of betting occurs. Once that round is over the dealer puts a fifth card on the table that everyone can use (the river). One more round of betting occurs.

During this time it’s important to learn how to read other players. Pay attention to their eye movements, idiosyncrasies and betting patterns. If a player is very conservative they won’t bet high early in the hand and will most likely stay in their hand if it’s good. Aggressive players, on the other hand, are risk-takers and will often raise their bets if they’re in a great position. It’s also important to remember that your opponents will most likely have a better hand than you, so don’t be afraid to bet aggressively.