Poker is a card game played by two or more players over a series of betting rounds. The aim of the game is to make a high-ranked five-card hand and win the pot. The game has many variations but, in essence, all involve being dealt cards and then betting over a number of rounds until one player has a strong enough hand to stay in the pot.

The first step in learning to play is understanding the rules of the game. Then you need to practice. Observe other experienced players and try to understand how they play their hands. Think about what you might have done differently in their position. This will help you develop your instincts and become a more effective player.

A common mistake beginners make is getting too passive with their draws. When you hold a straight or flush draw, bet aggressively to put pressure on your opponent. This will increase your chances of hitting your hand by the river.

Another important aspect of poker is reading your opponents. You can do this by observing their body language, their manner of speaking and the content of their conversation. This will give you an idea of how they are assessing your hand and whether or not they believe you are bluffing.

When playing poker, you should only gamble with money that you are willing to lose. It’s also a good idea to track your wins and losses if you are serious about the game.