The game of poker is a card game in which players place bets to win chips. The betting period is called a “round.” A player may either call the bet and put their own chips into the pot, or raise it (which means they are putting in more than the original bet). Some games also include blind bets, which take place before each hand is dealt.

You must know how to read a poker table. This includes understanding the rules, hand rankings and basic positions like button vs. big blind, and recognizing when to fold your hand. This is important because folding can protect your bankroll and maximize your profitability. The best way to learn how to read a poker table is to practice and play the game frequently.

Another important aspect of poker is knowing how to make your hands better. For example, you should always understand that your hand is usually good or bad in relation to what the other player is holding. For example, if you have two kings and the other player has A-A, your kings will lose 82% of the time.

If the player to your left bets, you must say “call” to match their bet and stay in the game. You can also raise your bet, which is a more risky move because it increases your chances of winning the hand. But you can only do this if you think that the person to your left is bluffing or if you have a very strong hand.