Poker is a game of chance, but skill and discipline can make the difference between breaking even as a beginner and becoming a big-time winner. It usually requires making a series of little adjustments, including learning to view the game in a colder, more detached, mathematical and logical way than you currently do. It also involves increasing your comfort level with risk-taking. This can be accomplished by taking risks in lower-stakes situations at first, and then gradually raising your stakes over time.

Depending on your game rules, you may have to place an initial amount of money into the pot before the cards are dealt. This is called a “buy-in” and can range from one white chip to five red chips. Once all players have bought in, the dealer shuffles and deals the cards. Each player is dealt two personal cards and the rest of the cards are community cards. The highest five-card hand wins.

In ties, the higher of the player’s individual cards breaks the tie. In addition, there are several other card combinations that can be made to create a winning hand, including straights and flushes. Three of a kind, two pair and high card are also possible hands.

A key to success is learning to read your opponents’ tells. This includes observing their body language, facial expressions and betting behavior. For example, if a player who has been calling all night suddenly raises their bet, they may be holding a strong hand.