Poker is a card game that can be played by any number of players. Its object is to win the pot, which is the sum of all bets placed during a single deal. The pot may be won by having the highest-ranking poker hand or by making a bet that no other player calls. There are many different forms of poker, but the game is most commonly played with six to eight people. The game has become very popular in recent years, and it is available online and at many casinos.

There are a few things you should know before playing poker. First, you should familiarize yourself with the rules and hand rankings. This can be done by reading poker guides and books. You can also learn by watching other poker players.

Once you’ve familiarized yourself with the rules, it’s time to start playing. In the beginning, you should play tight to maximize the hands you have. This will make it easier for you to win. It’s also important to mix up your style of play so that opponents don’t figure out what you have. If they always know what you have, it’s hard to get paid off on your big hands and bluffing won’t be effective.

During each betting interval (each deal), one player, designated by the rules of the variant being played, has the privilege or obligation of placing the first bet. This player is called the “button” or “dealer.” The button passes clockwise after each hand.

After the initial betting round is complete the dealer puts three cards face-up on the board that anyone can use. This is known as the flop. After the flop is dealt, each player must decide whether to call or raise their bet.

A pair of kings off the deal isn’t bad, but it won’t win. When the betting starts, Alex checks (calling when they don’t owe anything to the pot). Charley calls and Dennis raises. This will force weaker hands to fold and will increase the value of your pot.

It is also a good idea to be in position when it’s your turn to act. This will give you bluffing opportunities and allow you to better assess the strength of your opponent’s hands.

Depending on the rules of the game, players may establish a special fund or “kitty,” into which they place low-denomination chips from each pot in which they raise more than one bet. This kitty is used to pay for new decks of cards and other necessities, like food and drinks. Any chips left in the kitty when the game ends are divided equally among all players who remain in the game.