Poker is a card game where players place bets on the value of their hands. It has many variations, but the goal is always the same – to make the best five-card hand possible or convince other players that you have the strongest hand (even if you don’t).

The game is played using chips. Each player has a supply of chips, which they buy in for a fixed amount. The smallest chip is worth one white, and each successively larger chip represents higher values, such as two, four or five whites.

After the dealer has dealt each player 2 cards, a round of betting starts. The betting ends when all players have either called the highest bet or folded their hand. One more card is then dealt face up, and there’s another round of betting. The best poker hand wins the pot.

Developing quick instincts is the key to being successful in poker. Practice and watch experienced players to learn how they react in various situations. Try to figure out what you would do in their shoes, and mimic their behavior at the table. This will help you develop your own strategies and win more often. You should also know how to determine your bankroll, which is based on your financial situation and the stakes you plan to play. The ideal bankroll should give you enough of a cushion to withstand volatility and downswings without risking your entire poker capital.