Poker is a card game in which players wager chips (representing money) on the outcome of a hand. The goal is to win the pot, which is the sum of all bets placed during a single deal. A player can “call” a bet, raise it or fold his or her hand. In most cases, players must ante a certain amount of money to be dealt cards; this is known as the “pot.”

There are many different forms of poker, but most involve betting intervals. A player begins each betting interval by placing in the pot the same amount of money as the player to his or her left. Then, in turn, each player can either call the new bet or “raise” it. If a player raises, he or she must raise the same amount of money in the next round as well, or fold his or her hand.

Successful poker players are often able to read the emotional state of their opponents. They can pick up on subtle tells like a rapid heartbeat, eyelid flicking, nostril flaring and a hand over the mouth, which indicates that a player is trying to conceal a smile. They also can understand how to weigh their own emotions in order to make sound decisions.

In addition to good poker instincts, a strong bankroll and regular practice are essential. The game can be very addictive, so players must remain disciplined and play within their bankroll to avoid financial ruin.