Poker is a card game in which players bet money into a pot. The highest hand wins the pot.
Cards are dealt to each player in stages that include two cards (known as hole cards) and a series of three additional cards known as the flop, and then an additional single card known as the turn, before finally the fifth and final community card is revealed for “the showdown.”
Each time a player makes a bet they put a number of chips (representing money; poker is almost always played with poker chips) into the pot. The player who acts last (a position called the button) has the option to either call or raise the bets that come before him.
The higher a player’s hand is, the more they are likely to bet. Ideally, you want to make bets that are high enough that other players can’t easily fold. This is sometimes referred to as “spotting” other players, and it’s an essential skill.
To read other players, pay attention to their eye movements, idiosyncrasies and betting behavior. For example, a player who calls a lot and then suddenly raises a huge amount could be holding an amazing hand. Pay attention to what they say as well; if they say “check” it’s probably a good idea to check your hand. It also helps to practice and watch experienced players to develop quick instincts. It takes some time, but you will eventually get the hang of it.