Poker is a card game in which players bet with chips that represent money. Each player begins the game with a set amount of chips, called an initial investment or bring-in, which is placed in the pot before the cards are dealt. The players then place additional chips into the pot in one or more betting intervals, depending on the game variant being played.

When it is your turn to act, you can choose to “call” the latest bet or raise it. If you call, then the other players will have to either match your bet or fold their hands. Alternatively, you can simply choose to “check” your hand; this means that you do not want to make any additional bets and will wait until it is your turn again.

The best way to become a better poker player is by practicing as much as possible. This includes playing a lot of games with the right limits and game variations for your bankroll, as well as finding profitable games. It is also important to develop strong discipline and focus during games. This will help you avoid making mistakes that could cost you big.

It is also vital to be able to read other players’ tells. By doing this, you can figure out whether they have a good or bad poker hand and adjust your bet accordingly. In addition, you can also learn when to call and when to fold, which is an essential skill in any poker game.