Poker is a card game played with money (the amount of which varies depending on the game). Betting continues until one player has all the cards or everyone else folds. The winner of the hand then collects the pot. Poker is a gambling game, so players must keep records and pay taxes on their winnings.

Poker requires a significant amount of strategy and psychology to win. While it is true that luck plays a large role in the outcome of any individual hand, over time a skilled poker player can make more money than their opponents by taking risks and bluffing. The mathematical concepts of probability, game theory and human psychology become ingrained in the poker player over time, as the game becomes more than just a casual hobby.

When playing in a cash game, players must first “ante” something (the amount varies by game and we usually play for a nickel) to be dealt a hand of cards. After that players bet into a central pot in the middle of the table. If the person to your right raises their bet, you can say “call” to place the same amount in the pot as them.

If you can read your opponent’s tells, it will be easier to decide whether or not to call their bluff. Some common tells include shallow breathing, sighing, blinking excessively, flaring nostrils, staring at the cards or shaking hands. Also look for a hand over the mouth, this is often used to conceal a smile or reveal nervousness.