Poker is a card game in which players make bets with their chips based on the strength of their cards and the odds of winning. It requires a certain degree of luck, but the long-run expectations of players are largely determined by their actions chosen on the basis of probability, psychology and game theory.

Before the cards are dealt, each player must put a fixed amount of money into the pot, called forced bets. These are usually antes and blind bets, and they must be placed in order to give all players an equal chance of winning.

Once the forced bets are placed, the dealer shuffles the deck and deals each player two cards face down. Then the first of several betting rounds begins.

Each player may fold, call (match another player’s bet), or raise (bet more than the previous player). A player’s goal is to extract the most value from their winning hands and minimise losses on losing hands. This is known as ‘MinMax’ and is an important part of poker strategy.

To achieve this, you must learn to recognise when to make a bet and when to fold. You must also be able to understand the reasoning behind an opponent’s bet, so you can make better decisions and improve your chances of making money. Practice and watch experienced players to develop quick instincts and hone your decision-making skills. A well-timed fold is a powerful weapon that can protect your bankroll, minimise your losses and increase your overall profitability.