Poker is a card game in which two or more players put up a sum of money (the ante) to be dealt cards. Each player may then raise, call or fold. The highest-ranked poker hand wins the pot. Usually a minimum of four cards are dealt with the first round of betting called the flop. Then an additional card is placed on the board for the third round of betting, known as the turn. Finally, the fifth community card is revealed for the final betting round, called the river.

Beginner players often think about a hand in terms of their own cards, but it’s important to consider the relative strength of your opponent’s hands as well. It’s also helpful to study your opponents, not only for subtle physical poker “tells” like scratching their nose or playing nervously with their chips, but by observing patterns in how they play the game.

If you want to learn the game in a fun, social atmosphere, try finding some local players who play regularly at their homes. Ask around and see if there’s someone who’d be willing to host a home poker game for newbies, or join one of the many community-based poker clubs in town. Most of these groups have instructors who can help you learn the rules and practice your skills. They can even teach you to play for play money or a small amount of cash so that you don’t risk your hard-earned money until you’re ready to do so.