Poker is a game of cards that can be a fun and interesting way to spend an hour or two with friends. The game involves bluffing and reading other players’ body language, but it is also a game of luck, so the outcome can often depend on how well you played your hand. It is important to know the rules of the game and how to play your cards to have a chance at winning the pot.

Depending on the poker variant, one player (designated by the rules of the game) has the privilege or obligation to place a bet first each time a new hand is dealt. After this initial bet, the rest of the players can choose to call (match the amount placed by the person before him) or raise. If no one raises, the players can check their cards and draw replacements as needed.

When the betting phase concludes, the dealer places a fifth card on the table called the river. A final round of betting takes place, and the player with the best 5-card hand wins the pot.

In some games, players may agree to create a special fund or “kitty,” which is used to pay for things like food and drinks for the players at the table. When a game ends, any money left in the kitty is usually divided equally among the remaining players. Occasionally, players may choose to put all their chips into the pot without raising, which is known as all-in.