Poker is a gambling game where players use cards to try to make the best poker hand. Although it’s a game of chance, skill can make a player more successful over time.

A poker game begins with a dealer, who deals the cards to the players in turn. Each player is required to put in a bet, called an ante. The ante may be small or large, depending on the variant being played.

The dealer’s turn is followed by a betting interval, during which the players can make additional bets, fold their hands, or check. The betting interval ends when the betting turn returns to the player who last made a bet or when all players have checked.

The flop is the most important part of the hand. If the flop does not improve your hand, you should think about getting out of the pot.