Poker is a card game that involves betting between players. Each player has chips that have a specific value, and bets are made by placing these chips into the pot at the beginning of each betting round. The goal of the game is to form the best possible hand based on the cards you have. The player with the highest ranking hand wins the pot at the end of the game.

The first step to becoming a great poker player is knowing the basics of the game. There are many different rules and strategies to learn, but the most important thing to know is that skill overrides luck in poker. If you are willing to study and practice, you can become a much better player.

When you play poker, it’s also important to know how to read your opponents. This is important because it allows you to make more accurate calls on their hands. For example, if an opponent raises their bet after you check, it’s likely that they have a good hand.

Another way to improve your poker game is by learning how to set your aims. A good poker player constantly tweaks their strategy to improve their results. This is done through detailed self-examination and by discussing their hands with other players for a more objective look at their strengths and weaknesses. It is also a good idea to take notes and review your hands after each game.