Poker is a card game that involves betting and bluffing. While the outcome of a particular hand in poker significantly depends on luck, players can increase their chances of winning by making bets based on probability and psychology. Moreover, poker is a social game where players can use each other’s behavior to get ahead in the game.
A player must put in money before seeing their cards, called an ante or blind bet (or both). This forces everyone to make a bet and encourages competition. Once the antes or blind bets are in, the dealer shuffles the cards and deals each player two personal cards in their hands, followed by three community cards on the table that anyone can use (called the flop).
The flop is when everyone’s luck starts to turn. A good way to improve your poker strategy is to watch how top players play their hands and learn from them. Especially note how they fast-play their strong hands. This helps them build the pot and chase off others waiting for a draw that can beat their strong hand.