Unlike the card game of bridge, poker requires a lot more skill than chance. There is a lot of psychology involved, but also the ability to read your opponents and understand how the game works. A good way to learn is by watching professional players in action. Watch how Phil Ivey handles a bad beat, for example. He doesn’t get upset, and that’s why he is one of the best players of all time.
To begin a hand, all players must place an initial amount of money into the pot before they receive their cards. This is called the ante. A round of betting then takes place, starting with the player to the left of the dealer. This creates a pot and encourages competition.
When it’s your turn, you can say “call” or “I call” to put in the same amount as the last person. You can also raise a bet by increasing the amount you’re betting. If the other players have good hands, you can fold yours.
A strong poker hand is made up of three matching cards of one rank and two matching cards of another. A flush is 5 consecutive cards of the same suit. A straight is 5 cards of consecutive rank, but from more than one suit. A full house is 3 matching cards of one rank and 2 matching cards of another rank. And a pair is 2 matching cards of one rank, plus 3 unmatched cards.