Poker is a card game with a lot of psychology and bluffing involved, but it’s also a game that requires some skill. Learning the rules of poker and understanding how to read your opponents is what separates beginners from pros.
Each player places a bet in turn by putting chips into the pot equal to or higher than any bet that came before it. This process continues until all players have called the bet, or until a player drops (folds). When a player drops they lose any chips they put into the pot and are out of betting for the rest of the hand.
Once the first round of betting is over, the dealer puts three cards face up on the table that anyone can use. This is called the flop. There is another round of betting and the player with the best five-card poker hand wins the pot.
General Rule: When hands tie on rank of a pair, three of a kind, or full house, the highest card outside breaks the tie. For example, a pair of 2s is better than a 3 of a kind.
Players who are in position to bet after the flop can raise the stakes and make more money in the pot. It is good poker etiquette to be clear on what you’re betting, and avoid confusing your fellow players or hiding how much you have in your bet. Ask a more experienced player to help you if you’re not sure what to do.