Poker is a card game where players bet against each other over a series of betting rounds. The goal is to make the best five-card hand and win a pot. Players can call, raise or fold depending on the strength of their cards and their belief in other player’s cards. It’s important to know the rules of the game and practice bankroll management so that you don’t spend more than you can afford to lose.

There are many different forms of poker and each has its own unique rules, limits and game play. However, most games share a few core principles.

Firstly, players must put in a small and large blind before seeing their cards each round. This creates a pot immediately and encourages betting. It also helps to keep the game competitive and fun.

Once the pre-flop betting is complete the dealer deals three cards face up on the table (these are known as community cards). Then a second round of betting takes place. After this the dealer deals a fourth card, which is also known as the flop.

When the third betting round is over the dealer will reveal the fifth and final community card, which is called the river. This is when the Showdown takes place and the winner of the pot is determined. In case of a tie the highest pair is compared. This means two cards of the same rank and then the rank of the other unmatched card is compared.