Poker is a betting card game that requires both skill and luck to win. In the long run, however, skill virtually eliminates luck as a factor in winning.

A player’s success in the game depends on their ability to read opponents, predict odds and make big bluffs. It also requires a certain amount of courage and tenacity to continue betting at a bad hand even when their opponents call their bluffs.

The game starts with a round of betting where everyone puts in their chips. Each player receives 2 personal cards and 5 community cards. The best five-card poker hand wins the pot with all the bets made during the hand.

When the turn comes to you and the person before you raises their bet, you must decide whether or not to raise. If you want to stay in the round, you can “call” their raise by matching their bet. Otherwise, you can fold and forfeit the round.

The game is fast-paced and there are many action sequences. It is important to describe the by-play of the players and their reactions to the cards as they are revealed. Focusing on a series of card draws, bets, checks and reveals will feel lame and gimmicky to the reader. Instead, use the game as a vehicle for character and plot development. This will keep your readers interested.