Poker is a card game in which players try to assemble the highest-value hand by betting cash, chips or other units. Its intricate array of strategies and psychological nuances offer a rich mosaic of metaphors for compelling narrative. For example, the concept of a “poker face” can serve as an effective means for characters to conceal their true intentions—a key element of any good story.
There are many different variations of the game, but all involve a dealer dealing cards to each player, who then independently attempts to assemble a high-value hand. The player who bets the most money is deemed to have the best hand, and he or she wins the pot. In the earliest form of poker, players bet only on a narrow range of combinations, including one pair, two pair, three of a kind and a flush, where all five cards are of the same suit.
In the modern game, a player may place chips (representing money) into the pot at any time during his turn. The amount he places must be at least equal to the total contribution made by the player before him. This is called being in the pot.
Often, players in the pot make small bets to keep the pot growing and discourage opponents from raising before they have a strong hand. But if you have a great hand, don’t be afraid to raise it! This will draw other players into the pot and increase the value of your hand.