Poker is a card game played by two or more players. It’s a game of betting that can be highly lucrative when you learn how to play it correctly. The first step is understanding the basic rules of the game, including hand rankings and how position affects your strategy. Then you can start learning how to develop ranges and how to read other player’s tells.

When you’re just starting out, it’s recommended that you begin by playing low-stakes cash games or micro-tournaments. This will help you familiarize yourself with the game, understand the flow of hands, and get comfortable using poker chips. Also, it’s an excellent opportunity to observe other players and learn the way they play. Pay attention to their body language and look for tells like fiddling with their chips or a ring.

After all players have received their 2 hole cards there is a round of betting, which begins with the player to the left of the dealer. The first player to act can either hit or stay based on the value of their hand.

Then the dealer deals 3 additional cards face-up on the board that everyone can use, this is called the flop. Another betting round occurs and this time it starts with the player to the left of the dealer.