The game of poker is a gambling card game based on the principle of chance. Players place a small amount of money, called chips, into the pot before being dealt cards. After a betting round takes place the highest hand wins the pot. While there is a certain degree of luck involved, the game can also be influenced by probability, psychology, and game theory.

Most games begin by putting an ante up (the amount varies but is typically a nickel). After the antes are placed the dealer deals 2 cards to each player. Each player then has the option to fold, call or raise. If you have a strong hand, then you will likely raise. This is important as it forces the other players to put in more money, which increases your chances of winning.

After the first round of betting is over, the dealer places three cards face up on the table that anyone can use (this is called the flop). This allows players to bet again and to raise or fold.

It is important to know what hands beat which. The best hands are a full house (3 matching cards of one rank) and a flush (5 consecutive cards of the same suit). A straight is 5 cards that are in order but not from the same suit, and 3 of a kind is two matching cards and another two unmatched cards. The high card breaks ties.