Poker is a game in which players place bets on the strength of their cards and in consideration of the actions of other players. While the outcome of any particular hand largely involves chance, the decisions of each player are made on the basis of probability, psychology, and game theory.
The object of the game is to execute actions that maximize your long-term expectations. To do this, you must be able to distinguish the “low-hanging fruit” from the more complicated concepts, such as pre-flop hand selection and basic c-bet strategies.
Before the game starts, each player antes something (usually a small amount, like a dime) to be dealt a set of five cards. After this, each player can decide to call, raise or fold their hand. The highest hand wins the pot.
When betting comes around to you, say “I call” if you want to make the same bet as the person before you. If you raise, the person to your left will have a choice of calling or raising.
After everyone has called the bet, the dealer puts three more cards on the table that anyone can use (the flop). Then another round of betting takes place. After this, each player shows their cards and the best five-card hand wins the pot.
You should always play in position, or late position, if possible. This will force your opponents to make weaker hands, and give you more chances to win with strong ones. This strategy is a key element of winning at poker, and will be the difference between you and your more advanced competition.