The game of Poker is played with a standard deck of 52 cards, although some variant games may use more than one pack and include wild cards. The cards are ranked (high to low) as Ace, King, Queen, Jack, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 4, 3, 2. The highest hand wins the pot.

When playing poker, a player’s success depends largely on the ability to predict other players’ moves and bluffing skills. The ability to read the other players’ expressions, body language and other non-verbal cues is key. A strong understanding of probability and math is also helpful. Being able to calculate how much money you can win with your hand is important, too.

Each round of the game involves betting, with players’ bets being added to a central pot. The player to the dealer’s left puts in the first bet, and then each player has the option of calling, raising or folding.

Raise means adding more money to the bet; this can force weaker hands out of the pot or raise the overall value of your hand. Calling is when you match the previous player’s bet; this allows you to stay in the round. Folding is when you don’t want to play your hand; this forfeits the round. These actions are referred to as “turns.” It is important to practice and watch experienced players to develop quick instincts.