Poker is a card game where players attempt to make the best possible hand. Although the outcome is heavily dependent on chance, poker can be played with skill and strategy, allowing the player to reduce the influence of chance on their results.

The game begins when the dealer deals the cards. Each player is dealt a hand, which can be face-up or face-down, depending on the poker variant being played. Then, each player must place an ante into the pot.

Betting rounds follow each deal and each player can call, raise or fold (also called “drop”) their bet. When a player calls, they must put into the pot the same number of chips that was put in by the previous player; if they raise, they increase the size of the previous bet.

During betting rounds, one of the most important things you need to learn is how to read your opponents. This can be done by paying attention to their bets and raises, or by observing their body language.

You can also pick up tells by paying attention to their actions when they’re not in a position to bet or raise. For example, if a player bets pre-flop, but then folds on the flop, they are likely to be a tentative player who is not willing to risk much money in this situation.

You can also practice your hand-reading skills by playing free online poker games. These sites are great for learning the basics of the game and can be a good way to get used to playing with real people.