Poker is a card game of incomplete information in which each player aims to make the best 5-card hand using the two cards they have in their hands and the five community cards. Players must also decide whether to continue betting based on their knowledge of the strength of their opponents’ hands. This decision making involves a combination of probability, psychology and game theory. A good poker player uses these skills effectively to predict their opponent’s actions and make long-term profitable decisions.

Before the cards are dealt, one or more players are required to place an initial amount of money into the pot. This is called a forced bet and can come in the form of ante or blind bets.

After the forced bets, the dealer shuffles and cuts the deck, then deals each player 2 cards face-up or face-down, beginning with the player to their left. Then the flop is dealt. This is followed by the turn and river if applicable to the game. Then the players reveal their cards and the winner is determined.

If you have a strong hand, bet aggressively to put pressure on your opponents. This will make them either fold, or they will bet with weak hands and will be beaten by yours when the Flop, Turn and River appear. If you’re holding a premium opening hand like a pair of Kings or Queens, bet aggressively to establish dominance right from the start.