Poker is a card game of chance and skill that involves betting between two or more players. A player’s actions are often guided by the principles of probability, psychology and game theory. However, the game’s outcome depends on luck to a large degree and the players’ decisions can sometimes be influenced by bluffing.

In poker, the goal is to win as much money as possible in a single hand by playing the best possible hand given the cards you have been dealt. This requires a high level of discipline and the ability to weigh risks against potential rewards. It is also important to know when to fold a bad hand so that you can preserve your bankroll for stronger ones.

To begin, players place two mandatory bets (“blind bets”) into the pot before being dealt 2 hole cards. Then a round of betting begins, with each player having the option to call (match another player’s bet), raise or fold.

Bluffs happen far less frequently than in movies or in your friends’ houses, but they can be extremely profitable when used correctly. When you do bluff, remember that smaller pots are better for this type of play because the risk is lower.

As a general rule, you should aim to call the highest bet when holding a good hand and to raise the bet when you have a strong one. This strategy will help you maximise your profits and reduce your losses.