Poker is a card game that involves betting, skill, and chance. The goal is to form the best hand based on the ranks of the cards, and win the pot at the end of the betting round. There are dozens of variations of the game, but they all involve betting chips and competing against other players.
In general, the player to the left of the dealer places a forced bet (either an ante or blind bet), and then the dealer shuffles and deals the players cards, usually face-down but sometimes face-up depending on the variant. Then, each player puts in the same amount of money into a central pot, and the players with the highest ranking hands at the end of the betting round win the pot.
A player can win a hand by making a pair, three of a kind, straight, or a flush. They can also bluff, which can be successful when they have a good read on their opponents or are able to psyche them out of calling.
The best poker players are able to make quick decisions and adapt to the style of play at their table. Practice and watch other players to develop quick instincts and improve your own strategy.