Poker is a card game in which players wager chips (representing money, for which it is almost invariably played) on the outcome of a hand. There are many variants of poker, ranging in number of cards dealt, whether the cards are face up or down, and betting rules. The object of the game is to win the pot, which is the aggregate amount of all bets placed during a single deal. While the outcome of any particular hand involves significant elements of chance, the long-run expectations of the players are determined by actions chosen on the basis of probability theory, psychology, and game theory.
During each betting interval, one player (as designated by the rules of the variant being played) has the privilege or obligation to make the first bet. Each player in turn must either call that bet by placing in the pot the same number of chips as the total contribution to the pot by the player before him or raise it. If a player declines to raise, he must “drop” (fold), and loses any chips that he had put in the pot to date.
A good poker player must constantly refine their strategy to adapt to the circumstances of each game. Detailed self-examination is one way to do this; many players also discuss their hands and play with others for a more objective analysis of their strengths and weaknesses. Commitment to smart game selection is another important factor; a player must decide which limits and game variations will maximize their profits.
