Poker is a card game where players form a hand based on the cards they receive and hope to win the pot (all bets placed into the middle of the table). The pot is won by the player with the highest-ranking hand at the end of each betting round. While luck plays a large role in winning any specific hand, experienced players know that skill can outweigh luck in the long run.

A good way to improve your Poker skills is by reading strategy books on the subject. You can also find some great online resources on the topic as well. Another great idea is to seek out and talk to other players who are winning at the game and ask them about their strategies. Winning players are often willing to share their ideas and strategies with others, so this is a great way to learn.

When betting begins, each player must ante a certain amount to participate in the hand (the amount varies by game). When it is your turn to bet, you can say “call” or “I call” to make a bet equal to the one made by the person before you. You can also say “I raise” or “I raise” if you want to increase the amount of your bet.

If hands tie on the rank of a pair, three of a kind, four of a kind or a flush, the high card breaks ties. A royal flush is a hand that consists of an Ace, King, Queen, Jack and 10 all of the same suit.