Poker is a card game played by two or more players with a goal of winning the pot, which is the sum of all bets made in any one deal. The rules of poker vary slightly depending on the variant being played, but all share the same basic principle. Players must place chips, which represent money, in the pot before betting. Generally, the first player to make a bet is required to cover the stakes and may raise them further. When all bets are made, the cards are turned up and the player with the best hand wins the pot.

A good poker player is able to read his opponents and know when to make a bet. A good way to develop this skill is to watch experienced players play, and imagine how you would react in their position. This will help you to develop quick instincts, which are a critical component of success at any game.

The most important thing to remember about poker is that the situation is usually more important than the card rank. Even a great starting hand can be bad if your opponent has a better one. For example, if you hold K-K but the flop comes up J-J-5, your kings are suddenly losers 82% of the time. This is why many experienced players prefer to play the player rather than their cards.