Poker is a card game in which players place bets into the pot in the middle of the table. Each player must ante something before they see their cards, and when it’s their turn, they can bet whatever they want. The highest hand wins the pot. The deck is shuffled after each betting round, and the dealer usually does the shuffling. Betting passes clockwise around the table, and if you want to bet the same amount as the person to your right, say “call” or “I call” before placing your chips into the pot.

Before you play, learn about the different hands and how they rank. This will help you understand the rules and develop your strategy. For example, a straight beats a flush, and four of a kind beats two pair. The highest hand is a royal flush, which includes a 10, Jack, Queen, King and Ace of the same suit.

Watch experienced players and observe how they react to certain situations. This will help you understand their betting patterns and make more profitable bets of your own. Also, pay attention to their body language and nonverbal cues to pick up on clues about how they’re feeling about the game. It’s also helpful to know about the unwritten rules of poker etiquette. These are the guidelines that players follow to keep the game fair and fun for everyone involved. They can include things like not showing your hands to other players or making statements that may be considered a taunt or threat.