Poker is a card game in which players place bets into a central pot (value varies by game, but our games usually require an ante). The player to the left of the dealer shuffles and cuts the cards, and each player then receives their own hand. Then, the betting starts – players will either call or raise bets on the strength of their cards.

Generally speaking, the highest hand wins the pot. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. One is high card – this is based upon the one card in a players hand that has the highest value. Another is pair – two cards of the same rank. The higher the pair, the more valuable the hand. And finally, three of a kind – three cards in sequence of the same rank. High card also breaks ties.

If you are dealt a good hand, say “I call” to match the last person’s bet. If you want to bet more than the previous player, say “I raise.”

When you are done betting and no one calls your bet, you can discard some or all of your cards and draw new ones. This is known as the ‘draw stack’. Then the next round of betting takes place. In the final round, the best remaining hand wins the pot. This is a great way to build your comfort with taking risks and improve your strategy.