Poker is a card game that can be played by two or more players. Its rules vary from one variant to the next but most forms of poker are based on the same principles. The object of the game is to win the pot, which is the sum of all bets made by players during a single deal. This may be accomplished by having the highest-ranked poker hand or by making a bet that no other player calls.

The dealer deals each player two cards. Once everyone has their cards they begin betting, and each player must put in chips equal to the amount placed in by the player to his or her left during this betting interval. This is called the ante.

After the ante has been placed the dealer deals three additional cards on the table that anyone can use, this is called the flop. The players then get another chance to bet and raise or fold their hands.

To play well you need to understand relative hand strength. This means looking at the strength of your own cards as well as the cards that are already out on the board. It also means thinking about what cards your opponents might have and making moves based on this information. Bluffing is an important part of the game but it’s better to learn about your opponents before attempting any bluffs. If you are playing EP or MP it is especially important to keep your opening range tight and only call or raise with strong hands.