The game of poker is a card game in which players compete to form the best 5-card hand. Each player is dealt 2 cards and there is a round of betting, initiated by two mandatory bets called blinds placed into the pot by the two players to the left of the dealer. Depending on the type of poker you are playing, there may be additional antes and/or blinds.

Players place these bets into the “pot” which is the total sum of all the bets made during the hand. At the end of each betting round the player with the highest-ranking hand wins the pot.

Once the initial betting phase is complete a third card is dealt face-up on the table, known as the flop. Another round of betting ensues. If any of the remaining players still have a poker hand, they can then raise or fold.

If you have a premium opening hand like a pair of kings or queens it’s generally a good idea to bet aggressively from the get-go. This will set a tone of strength at the table and can help you assert your dominance early on in the hand.

A strong poker strategy will always include playing your position. When it’s your turn to act you’ll have more information than your opponents and will be able to make more informed decisions about whether or not to call or raise. Playing your position also gives you bluff equity, which is a critical aspect of winning poker.