Poker is a card game where players place bets to compete for a high hand. There are many variations of the game, but the basic rules are the same: The player to the left of the dealer button controls the action by deciding whether to call (put chips into the pot) or raise. The other players must either call or fold if they don’t have the same amount of money as the player raising.

When playing poker, it is important to understand how your opponent bets and how they play their hands. This will give you clues as to the strength of your own hand and what cards might hit on the board. For example, if an opponent calls pre-flop, it is usually because they are on a draw or have a mediocre hand.

It is also important to be aggressive when it makes sense, especially in late position. This will encourage the other players to make bigger bets, which will result in more money for you!

One of the best ways to improve your poker strategy is to read books on the subject. There are many different strategies, so find a book that suits your style and level of play. It is also a good idea to talk about hands with winning players, as this can help you understand their decisions and learn from them.