Poker is a card game that requires skill and deception. It also has a large element of luck, but the best players know that it’s not just about winning and losing: you have to learn to lose without getting upset. Watch videos of Phil Ivey taking bad beats; he never shows any emotion, and that’s why he’s one of the best players ever.

A player begins a hand by putting in an amount called an ante (the amount varies from game to game, ours is typically a nickel). When it’s your turn to bet you place chips representing money into the middle of the table (called the pot).

After betting on the first round of cards the dealer deals three more cards face up on the table that anyone can use. These are called the flop. The highest five-card poker hand wins the pot.

When betting comes around to you, it’s important to be able to quickly evaluate your hand and decide whether to raise or call. The more you practice this, the quicker and better your instincts will become.

Say “call” to match the last player’s bet (if he raised) or simply place your own bet into the pot. If you want to raise a bet, just say “raise.” You can also fold your hand at any time before the showdown. Depending on the rules of your game, you may also draw replacement cards to improve your hand.