Poker is a game of incomplete information, meaning you don’t know what cards your opponents are holding or how they will play them. You bet with chips (representing money, for which poker is almost invariably played) and aim to make the best five card “hand” using your own two cards and the community cards dealt. If you bet and your opponents fold, you win the pot (all the Chips that have been bet so far).

You can choose to act on your turn by saying ‘I open’ if no one has opened already and you want to raise the betting. Then, if you are not happy with your own hand, you can fold and start again with a fresh hand.

Among the most valuable skills of top players are patience, reading other players, adaptability and strategy development. The best players are able to assess pot odds quickly and quietly, and they can make the most of the situation at hand. They also possess the self-discipline to stick to their plan even when it’s boring or frustrating.

It is important to practice, watch other players play and develop quick instincts rather than trying to learn complex systems. It is also a great idea to discuss your playing style with other players for a more objective look at your strengths and weaknesses. Having a strong poker strategy is essential, and you should tweak it to ensure that it is always working for you.