Poker is a game of cards that involves betting chips and can result in winning or losing them. It has many variations, but the rules are mostly the same. Players are required to place an initial amount of money into the pot before they see their cards, called a blind or an ante. This creates a pot immediately and encourages competition.

There is then a round of betting after players have received their 2 hole cards. A third card is then dealt face up in the middle of the table, called the flop. This starts the first of several betting rounds. The flop can change the strength of a poker hand, so be sure to pay attention.

If you are holding a pair of Kings or Queens in preflop, it is usually a good idea to bet aggressively. This will scare away your opponents who may have a weaker hand. This can help you win more pots and make a higher profit.

You should also learn the basics of poker terminology. For example, when someone bets, you can call their bet by saying “call” or “I call.” You should also know what hands beat other hands. For example, a full house is 3 matching cards of one rank and 2 matching cards of another rank, and a flush is 5 cards of consecutive rank from the same suit. Knowing this will help you to understand what other players are likely trying to do and will allow you to read their actions better.