Poker is a card game in which players place bets on their hand. The goal of the game is to make the best five-card hand at the end of the betting round. It is considered a game of skill and strategy, but luck plays a role as well. There are many variations of the game, but most share some common features.

When it is your turn to act, you can say “call” if you want to match the amount of the last raise and put chips into the pot. This way, you can control the size of the pot and get more value out of a strong hand. You can also say “check” to pass on your turn, which lets you maintain your current position in the betting and wait for other players to act.

Another important aspect of the game is reading your opponents. This is a skill that can be learned, and it’s not as difficult as people think. A good poker player can read their opponents by noticing details like the way they hold their cards and move their chips, their mood shifts, and their body language.

If you want to improve your poker skills, try playing against people with lower buy-ins. This will allow you to win more consistently and keep your bankroll under control. Moreover, don’t be afraid to lose a few hands — just learn from your mistakes and keep improving! By the same token, don’t let your ego get in the way of having fun at the table.