Poker is a card game played between two or more players. There are a variety of different games and betting structures, but the majority of them share the same basic rules. The game is played with a standard 52 card deck of playing cards. The ace is high and can also be used low in a run of cards (straight or flush) or as part of a three-of-a-kind hand.

To begin the game, players must “buy in” with a fixed amount of chips. These are called “blind bets” and they serve to create a pot and encourage competition. Once all players have bought in, 2 cards are dealt face down to each player. Each player must then decide whether to stay in the hand, which is to say “stay” and flip one of their cards up face up or double up, by saying “hit.”

When a player is in position, they have more information than their opponents and can make moves that take advantage of this fact. For example, if an opponent has shown preflop that they are a strong bluffer they can use this information to put more pressure on them to fold when it is their turn to act.

Learning to read the table is an essential part of the game. Understanding what hands beat other hands will help you make better decisions, and recognizing when a hand is strong enough to make a bet is crucial. Practice and watch other players to develop quick instincts.