Poker is a card game where players compete to form the highest ranked hand of cards. The winner of the hand claims a pot that includes all bets placed during the hand. The game is a social activity and the players must follow etiquette, including showing respect for other players and dealers.
There are several different kinds of poker games, but the basics are similar across them. Each player receives two cards and may place a bet before the dealer deals the next card. Players can call, raise or fold. They must also show their hands at the end of the hand.
A key skill is reading the tells of other players, which are nonverbal cues that indicate the strength of their hand. This is important because it can help you make better decisions. Another skill is knowing when to bet, especially if you have a good hand. A high bet can force your opponents to fold if they have a weak hand, while a low bet can make them think you are bluffing and they will fold.
One of the keys to winning in poker is aggression, especially late into tournaments when your opponents are trying to conserve their chips. A strong, aggressive hand can overcome a short stack and give you a big advantage in the game.