Poker is a game of decision-making and probability. Players decide whether to check, bet, call, or fold based on the likelihood that their hand is the best. Successfully making these decisions is both an art and a science. The science involves being disciplined to stick to best practices and knowing when to adjust your strategy on the fly.

It is helpful to practice and watch others play poker to develop quick instincts. Observe how experienced players react to their opponents’ actions and consider why they make the decisions that they do. This will help you improve your own play style and improve your chances of winning.

When it’s your turn to act, say “call” if you want to bet the same amount as the person to your left. If someone else raises, you can say “raise” to add more money to the pot. If you don’t have enough chips to call, you can “fold” (drop your cards) instead.

One of the best ways to win a hand in poker is to hit the needed cards on the flop, turn, or river. This is called making a flush, straight, or three of a kind.

A small bet that all players have to place before a hand begins. This is called an ante and it gives the pot a value right away. The dealer must collect the antes and distribute them evenly to all the players.