In poker, players compete to make the highest-ranking hand possible from a dealt set of cards. The game has many variants, but all share the same essential rules. A poker hand consists of five cards. Each card has a rank (Ace, King, Queen, Jack), and each suit has a value equal to its numerical frequency. The higher the rank, the more valuable the card. The game may be played by one or more players, and players may also bluff by betting that they have a high hand when they do not.
The first player to place chips (representing money) into the pot is said to open the betting. Each subsequent player must either match the stake of the preceding active player or raise it, but he cannot win more than his own stake. If a player declines to increase his bet, he is said to drop or fold.
The best way to improve your poker skills is to practice often. Observe experienced players and imagine how you would react in their shoes. This will help you develop good instincts, and it will be easier to learn the game quickly.