Poker is a card game where players bet on the odds of winning a hand by raising the pot. Depending on the game rules, each player must place an initial amount of money into the pot before any cards are dealt. This is called the ante and is usually made up of chips or cash.

The aim of the game is to form a high-ranking hand (e.g., three of a kind or a full house) in order to win the pot at the end of the betting round. You do this by matching the previous player’s bet or raising it. When it’s your turn, you say “call” to match the last bet or raise and put your chips into the pot. You may also choose to fold, removing your cards from play.

While luck does affect your chances of winning a hand, poker is mostly about math and calculating probability. In addition, it requires mental toughness. Watch videos of Phil Ivey taking bad beats, for example, and you’ll see he doesn’t get frustrated or throw a tantrum. This ability to accept a loss and learn from it is a valuable skill that can be applied in high-pressure situations outside the poker table.

Learning to read other players’ body language is another essential aspect of poker. You must be able to pick up on their tells, which are subtle signs that they’re nervous or bluffing. This skill can also be useful in other high-pressure situations, such as when trying to sell someone a product or lead a meeting.