Poker is a card game in which players bet against each other in rounds, with the player with the best hand winning. The cards are dealt face-down, and each player is required to place an ante into the pot before they can act on their hand. A player can also pass on their turn to bet if they wish.
The first round of betting is called the flop. After the flop is dealt, an additional community card is revealed and the second round of betting takes place. The third and final betting phase is called the river, after which the players show their hands and the player with the highest poker hand wins.
When you have a premium opening hand like a pair of Kings or Queens, bet aggressively. This will make other players think twice about calling your bets when they hold the same type of hand.
A Full House is three matching cards of one rank plus two matching cards of another rank. A Flush is five consecutive cards of the same suit. A Straight is five consecutive cards of different suits. Pair is two cards of the same rank and one other unmatched card. High card breaks ties.
Developing good poker instincts is a crucial part of improving your game. Practice and watch other players to learn how to react quickly in certain situations. You can also read books and online articles about strategy but the most valuable information is gained through experience. A good way to gain experience is by playing poker against or with people who are better than you.