Poker is a game of chance, but it also relies heavily on psychology and skill. Especially when the chips are on the line, it becomes much more than just a game of chance; it is a game of survival and competition between the players.

To begin a hand, the cards are shuffled and cut by the player to their right. Then one by one, each player is dealt two cards (or more, depending on the variant of poker being played). Once the cards are dealt, a betting interval begins. In this betting interval the first player to act has the privilege (or obligation, depending on the rules of the variant being played) of opening the betting by placing chips into the pot. The player to his left must either call this bet (match it in any way he wishes) or raise it. If he raises, the player to his right must raise again or fold.

Once the betting is done, the remaining cards on the table are revealed. If the player has a high pair (two distinct pairs), he wins the hand. Otherwise, the highest card breaks ties.

As with all poker games, there are many nuances to the rules and ways of playing. There is a lot to learn about the game, and if you are interested in learning more then I recommend reading a book on poker. Another good resource is to join a poker game and observe the actions of the other players. You will quickly learn how to read their tells, which are unconscious habits of the body and mind that reveal information about their cards.