Poker is a card game that involves betting between players. It requires a fair amount of skill and psychology to play well. The goal is to form a hand based on the card rankings and win the pot at the end of the betting round.
As a beginner, you should start by learning about starting hands and position. Understanding these basics will help you make better decisions throughout the game and improve your chances of winning.
In the beginning, it is important to keep your plays tight and conservative until you get a read on the table or have a good hand. Observing the play of more experienced players can also be helpful, as you can learn from their mistakes and incorporate successful elements into your own strategy.
You should also familiarize yourself with poker terminology and rules. You will use these terms when discussing the game with others or explaining your own strategy. For example, when a player says “call,” it means that he or she wants to bet the same amount as the person before him or her.
There are a number of poker books available that will give you a good overview of the game and its strategies. Some of them are more advanced, while others are geared toward beginners. You can also find a lot of videos on YouTube about poker. These videos can provide a great way to learn the game before you join a live poker game or online poker room.