Poker is an international game of skill, where players compete against each other to win the pot. It is played with a standard pack of cards (usually 52).

The game begins by each player contributing an amount, called an “ante,” to the pot. The dealer then deals two cards to each player. The player with the highest hand wins the pot.

Each player is then given the opportunity to bet, fold or check in each betting interval. If a player chooses to bet, the player adds to his bet by putting more chips into the pot. If a player chooses to check, he doesn’t place any chips in the pot.

In each betting interval, the first player must bet at least an established minimum. He may choose to raise if he thinks he has a better hand.

There are several Poker variants, all of which share the same basic rules. Some have more than 10 players, while others have fewer.

Some have a special fund, called the “kitty.” In these games, the first bettor may cut one low-denomination chip from each pot in which there is more than one raise. These chips are then divided among the players in turn.

The most common poker variant is Texas Hold’Em, which requires a small initial contribution, the “ante,” from each player. The dealer then deals two cards to each of the players and everyone has a chance to bet, fold or check in each round.