Poker is a game of incomplete information that forces players to weigh the risks and rewards of each decision. As a result, it can be an excellent way to improve your decision-making skills and develop a better understanding of probability and statistics.

In the beginning of the game, players pay a small amount (the amount varies by game) to be dealt two cards each. Once everyone has their cards, a round of betting begins. Players can choose to call, raise, or fold, with the person with the highest hand winning the pot.

During the betting phase, it is important to study your opponents’ betting patterns. Conservative players tend to fold their weak hands early, while aggressive players are more likely to make high bets. You can also observe the size of their chip stacks; short-stacked players are desperate to win and can be easier to bluff against.

After the flop is dealt, another card is added to the board and there’s another round of betting. If you have a strong hand, you can bet to force weaker hands out of the pot and increase your chances of winning. However, if you don’t have a good hand, you should check (pass your turn to act) and wait until it comes around again. You can also “raise” your bet to add more money into the pot. If you do this, your opponent must either call or raise the amount of your bet.