Poker is a card game that involves betting between players. Although some would consider it a game of chance, over time a good player can virtually eliminate the element of luck by making informed decisions based on probability, psychology and game theory.
The game begins with the dealer passing out a set number of cards. Depending on the variant of poker, these cards may be dealt face up or in sets to create a community card pile. A round of betting then takes place. Players can choose to fold, call or raise. Raising requires the player to add a sum of money equal to the total stakes made by the players before him. This is to ensure that the player who raises is not left out of the pot.
A player can also bluff by betting that they have a superior hand. If the other players do not call this bet, the bluffing player will win the hand.
Once the first round of betting is complete, another card is dealt face up – this is known as the flop. This allows for a further round of betting. A player can either call, raise or check.
The highest five card poker hand is a pair of distinct cards and a high card. The high card breaks ties. A high pair consists of any two cards of the same rank and suits (eg, four jacks or three spades). The player with the highest card wins the pot.