Poker is a card game in which players wager money (or chips) to win the pot. There are many variants of the game, but most involve betting on a single hand. The aim is to win the pot by having the highest-ranking hand. The game can be played with anywhere from two to 14 players, but is most often played by six or seven.

Players start the game by putting an amount of money (called the ante) into the pot, then each player is dealt two cards face up. There is then a round of betting, starting with the person to the left of the dealer. If no one raises, the highest hand wins the pot.

If someone raises, you can choose to call, fold or raise again. If you have a good hand, it’s usually best to raise since this will force weak hands out and increase the value of your pot.

You can also use bluffing to improve your chances of winning a pot. Be careful when bluffing, though, as some people are very good at picking up tells and can spot a bluff even when you’re trying to hide it.

Poker is a fun, social activity, but it can be mentally taxing. If you’re feeling frustrated or tired, take a break from the game. Poker is a skill-based game that requires attention and focus, so it’s best to play only when you feel at your peak.