Poker is a card game that involves betting and the chance of having a winning hand. While there is a great deal of luck involved, good players make decisions based on probability, psychology and game theory. If you’re looking to learn the game, try finding a local home game and ask to be seated at the table. While you might lose some money at the beginning, this is a very low-cost way to get started.

Before the cards are dealt, each player must place an initial amount of money into the pot. This is called the ante and can be made up of cash or chips. Some games also require additional forced bets, known as blinds and bring-ins. These are placed into the pot by players who either believe that they have a positive expected value or who want to bluff other players.

When your turn comes to act, you can say “call” to make a bet that is the same as the last person’s. You can also raise your bet if you think that you have a strong hand, such as a full house or straight flush.

It’s important for beginners to learn how to read other players and watch for their tells. These are the little clues that reveal a player’s intentions, such as fiddling with their chips or wearing a ring. In addition, observing how other players play can help you develop quick instincts and improve your game.