Poker is a card game played between two or more players and is one of the most popular casino games. It requires strategy, patience and observation of other players. A good poker player is able to calculate pot odds and percentages quickly and quietly and knows when to fold. Other important skills include reading other players and adaptability.

The first step in learning poker is understanding the rules of the game and the terminology used. Ante – the first amount of money placed into the pot; each player must put up this amount to participate in the hand. Call – when you match the previous player’s bet amount to stay in the round. Raise – when you want to increase the betting amount of the current round and are not sure you have an excellent hand, you can raise your bet.

Sitting out a hand – it is perfectly acceptable to sit out of a hand if you need to use the restroom, refresh your drink or take a phone call. However, you should try to avoid missing more than a couple hands in a row; it will be unfair for the rest of the table if you’re constantly skipping hands.

As a beginner, you may often be tempted to play your hands despite their strength. However, folding is sometimes the best move if you don’t have a strong enough hand to win the pot. Be patient and wait for a situation where the poker odds work in your favour before putting your chips in the pot.