Poker is a card game played between a group of players. The objective is to extract maximum value from your winning hands, while minimising losses from your losing ones. This is known as “min-max” or “maximum expected value.” The game is a social one and many strategies involve misinforming opponents about the strength of their hands.

The game is mainly played with chips. Each player buys in with a set number of chips. A white chip is worth a minimum of the ante or bet; a red chip is worth a higher amount (two, four, or five whites); and a blue chip is usually worth a larger amount again (20, 25, or 50 whites).

When each player has their 2 hole cards, a round of betting begins, usually triggered by mandatory bets called blinds put into the pot by two players to the left of the dealer. After a few rounds of betting, another card is dealt to the table called the flop. This triggers a new round of betting, with the player to the button being last to act.

A good poker player combines several skills to become successful. They must have self-discipline and persistence, as well as a sharp focus. They also need to make smart decisions about game selection and limits. They must know when it’s best to play tight or loose, and they should never be afraid to fold a poor hand. Lastly, they must be able to read their opponent’s tells – the little cues that players give off with every call, raise, and check.