Poker is a card game that involves betting. There is an element of luck to the game, but there is a fair amount of skill and psychology involved in playing well. Poker can be a very fun and challenging game to play, especially with a group of friends.
Depending on the rules of your game, one or more players are required to put an initial amount of money into the pot before cards are dealt. This is called a forced bet and is often equal to or higher than the blind bet.
Once all players have received their 2 hole cards, a round of betting begins. This is initiated by the two mandatory bets, or blinds, placed into the pot by the players to the left of the dealer.
The next card is revealed, which is the flop. At this point you can make the best 5-card hand you can from your own personal cards, and the community cards on the table. The best possible hand at this stage is a set (three of the same suit) or straight (five consecutive cards of the same suit). High cards are used to break ties.
When playing poker, it is important to leave your cards on the table and in sight. This ensures that the dealer can see that you are still in the hand and that you have not been trying to hide them from other players. It is also a good idea to learn how to read other players and watch for their tells, which are little things they do that give away the strength of their hands.