Poker is a card game that can be played by 2 or more people. It is typically played with a standard 52-card deck but there are many variations of the game that utilize different deck sizes and rules. The objective of the game is to win wagers by making the best hand or convincing other players to fold. A good poker player can also read their opponent’s tells and use them to their advantage.

The first step in learning to play poker is understanding the basic rules and terms. There are several different types of poker, but all share certain fundamental principles. Each hand of cards is ranked according to its mathematical frequency, and the player with the highest-ranking hand wins the pot, or all bets placed during that particular deal. Players may also bluff by betting that they have the highest hand, or even a higher one, to try to scare off other players.

After each player is dealt 2 cards, a round of betting begins. Each player can either call, raise or fold. If you have a strong hand like a pair of kings you can say “call” which means to put in the same amount as the person to your right.

In Pot Limit poker, there are additional rules on how much a player can raise and the minimum they must bet. A good way to learn these rules is by keeping a journal, either in writing or on a computer, and tracking your bets as you play.