Poker is a card game played by a group of players. It is a fast-paced game that involves betting by each player in turn. Players can win by having the highest-ranked hand of cards or by bluffing. The highest-ranked hand is determined by comparing the cards in each player’s hand with the cards in the other players’ hands.

Some variations of the game have blind bets, which are mandatory bets made before each hand starts. These bets can replace the ante or can be in addition to it. The player to the left of the button posts these bets, which are called the small and big blind. These bets ensure that there is always a pot to win and help keep players interested in the game.

After the blinds have been posted, each player is dealt 2 cards face down (hidden from other players). These cards are called that player’s hole or pocket. There is a round of betting before the next cards are dealt, which is called the flop.

Once the flop has been dealt, another round of betting begins with the player to the left of the button. Then, 1 more card is dealt face up, which is called the turn. Another round of betting follows, with the player to the left of the button taking the first turn.

The player who has the best-ranked five-card hand wins the pot, which is all of the money that has been bet during a particular hand. In some cases, the pot can be split amongst several players who have similar hands.