Poker is a card game that involves chance but also relies heavily on skill, psychology and game theory. The object of the game is to execute the most profitable actions (call, raise or fold) based on the information you have at hand. The best players make decisions with a clear and focused vision of their long-term goals.
To play the game of poker you need a set of chips. Traditionally the white chip is worth one unit or minimum ante, and each color of chip represents a specific amount of money. The lowest denomination is the white, followed by the red and then the black chips. Each player buys in for a specific number of chips, which they then use to place bets and calls during the betting rounds of the hand.
The first betting round in a hand is called the pre-flop round. After this betting round the dealer deals three cards on the table that anyone can use. These are known as the flop. This is when most players will bet into the pot.
The final stage of a hand is the river. This is where you decide whether to call the last bet or fold your cards. You should only call if the value of your cards is greater than the expected return of calling. For example, if you have a pair of kings and your opponent has a strong five-of-a-kind then you would want to fold because there is no way you are going to beat their hand.