Poker is a game of chance, but it also relies on considerable skill. It’s about reading your opponents, understanding their tells (or non-verbal cues) and adapting your strategy accordingly. It’s about making the most of the cards you have, and convincing others that you’ve got a good hand even when you don’t!
The first step in learning how to play poker is to understand the basics of starting hands and position. These are the foundations that set the stage for all of your decision-making throughout the hand. As you progress, you’ll learn about more advanced concepts and poker lingo, as well as how to adapt your starting hand range for specific situations.
When it comes to poker, the rules vary depending on how many players are in the game and what type of poker is being played. However, most games have some basic etiquette that all players should follow. This includes being respectful of your fellow players, avoiding arguments and interfering with the game, and always tipping the dealer!
The game begins with each player placing an ante, which is the minimum amount they must raise in order to continue playing. Then each player acts in turn, beginning with the player to their left. Each player can check, call or raise the bet made by the previous player. If they raise the bet, it is known as a re-raise. If they choose to fold, they forfeit any bets they have already placed in the round.
