The Basics of Poker

Poker is a card game played between two or more players. It is a game of chance that involves betting and the objective is to have the best five-card hand. There are countless variations of poker, but the core rules remain the same. The game is typically played using a standard 52-card English deck with a choice of jokers/wild cards. Players decide before the hand whether or not to use them. The one who wins is the player that has the highest hand amongst the other players. In the case of a tie, each player who has a high hand splits their winnings equally.

When the game starts each player receives 2 cards called hole cards. There is then a round of betting where the first player to act can raise or fold. The dealer then deals 3 more cards face up on the table, these are called the flop. Once again there is another round of betting and then 1 final card is dealt which is known as the river.

There are a number of rules which players follow to ensure that the game is fair and runs smoothly. These rules are not set in stone, but it is important that you understand them and try to abide by them.