Poker is a card game in which players place bets on the strength of their hand. The goal is to win the pot, or the sum of all bets placed during one deal. The pot is usually awarded to the player who has the highest-ranking poker hand. The game is played with chips that represent money, and each chip has a specific value (for example, a white chip is worth the minimum ante or bet, while a red chip represents five whites).

In addition to teaching players how to read their opponents, poker also teaches them how to manage their emotions. This can be useful in many situations, from dealing with stressful events to presenting to colleagues. Poker players also learn how to read body language and pick up on tells, which can help them spot when their opponents are bluffing or lying.

Another benefit of poker is that it helps players become more comfortable taking risks. By playing in low-stakes games and micro-tournaments, new players can build up their confidence without risking a lot of money. They can also practice managing their risk by studying the games of experienced players and implementing successful moves into their own gameplay.