Poker is a card game in which players wager money and chips against each other. It is a game of skill and strategy, as well as luck. The game can be played by 2 to 14 people, but it is best when there are 6 – 8 players. The object of the game is to win the pot, which is the sum of all bets placed in one deal. This may be done by having the highest ranking poker hand or by making a bet that no other player calls.

There are a number of different types of poker, but most have the same basic rules. Each player starts with two hole cards, and then there is a round of betting. Each player must put a minimum amount of money into the pot (called a blind) before they can bet again. The dealer will usually shuffle the deck after each betting interval, and then pass the button to the player on their left.

It is important to be able to read your opponents. This includes reading their facial expressions, eye movement, and body language. A good way to improve your skills is to play in a live game with experienced players. This will help you develop quick instincts. It is also important to practice and watch poker videos to learn how other players play the game. Watching other players can be an effective learning tool because it allows you to analyze their strategies and see what tactics work best for them.