Poker is a card game played by two or more players and involving betting between hands. It became a popular spectator sport early in the 21st century, partly because of technological developments such as hole-card cameras and broadcasting of major tournaments. It’s a complicated game with hundreds of possible variations, but most of the basic rules apply across them all.
The game begins with a single player placing an initial amount of money into the pot before the cards are dealt, known as an ante or blind. This is a mandatory bet and it helps create a pot to win, which gives players an incentive to play.
Once the antes are placed, each player is dealt 2 starting, or “hole” cards, and then a round of betting begins. If you have a strong hand, you can raise to price out other weaker hands. If you have a weak hand, you can fold to avoid losing more money.
One of the best things to remember is that you should always be playing your opponent and not just your own cards. By observing how experienced players react to situations, you can build your own quick instincts and improve your own game.
