Poker is a card game that can be played by two or more players. It involves betting in which each player has a chance of winning a pot that can be shared by all players who remain in the hand. The game is not physically strenuous, but it can be psychologically taxing and requires a lot of concentration to master. There are dozens of different poker games, but most are played with the same basic rules.

The first step in playing poker is to decide how much money you want to gamble with. You should never gamble more than you’re willing to lose. Whether you’re new to the game or an experienced player, you should always track your wins and losses. This will help you determine whether your bankroll is growing or shrinking, and it can also help you make better decisions when playing the game.

Once a round of betting begins, each player must place a small bet called the small blind and a larger bet called the big blind. Then, everyone receives their hole cards.

When your turn comes to act, you can call, raise, or fold. If you’re not sure how to proceed, ask the dealer or another player what your options are. If you raise, you must increase your previous bet amount in one move. If you call, you must match the current bet. If you’re unsure about your opponent, observe their actions and body language.