Poker is a card game that is played by two or more players and involves betting. It is often a social and fun way to spend time with friends. There are many ways to play poker, from informal games in the backyard to competitive tournaments. If you’re looking to learn how to play, the best way is to find a local group that meets for regular games. It is best to start out at a low stakes game and gradually work your way up. This will help minimize financial risk and allow you to experiment with different strategies without feeling too much pressure.

Once the cards are dealt, each player starts by revealing their hands one at a time. The goal is to beat the card in the middle, which can be a high card or a pair, a flush, or a straight. A player can also win the pot by bluffing.

The first betting round in poker is called the preflop phase. After the initial betting, the dealer puts three community cards face up on the table. These are cards that everyone can use.

After the flop, the players can decide whether to call, raise, or fold their hands. A common mistake among newcomers is to play their draws passively. A good strategy is to be aggressive when you have a strong draw and force opponents to call your bets. This will increase your chances of making a good hand by the river.