Poker is a card game that requires an understanding of probability, strategy and the ability to read other players. It is also a test of courage and comfort with risk-taking.
Each player starts with two cards that are hidden from the other players and then they place their bets. The betting phase continues around the table until everyone has had a chance to call, raise or fold. Depending on the rules of the game, there may be a set number of chips that are shared between all the remaining players after the showdown.
To make a hand in poker, you need to have at least three matching cards of the same rank. A full house consists of 3 matching cards of one rank and 2 matching cards of another rank. A straight is 5 consecutive cards of the same suit.
If a player has an unmatched pair, then they have a flush. If a player has both a straight and a flush, then they have a full house.
To win a poker hand, you must have the best possible cards and bet enough to win the pot. You can bet more than you have in your pocket if you want to try and scare the other players into folding their cards by saying “raise.” Alternatively, you can say “call” to match someone else’s bet. If you’re all-in, then you put all of your chips into the pot. There are usually special rules about when you can and cannot call an all-in bet.