Poker is a card game played by two or more players. A hand consists of five cards. Players make forced bets, called the ante and blind bet, either with cash or chips. Each player must call the bets of all other players unless they have a superior hand. Players may also bluff, betting that they have a superior hand when they do not.

As a general rule, the best way to improve your poker game is to play more hands. However, you should never chase your losses or play on tilt. It’s also important to focus on improving your physical condition. You can do this by practicing your stamina or by observing experienced players and imagining how you would react in their position.

You should also learn to read other players. This includes their tells (eye movements, idiosyncratic behavior, betting habits etc.). For example, if you see a player frequently calling and suddenly raising, it’s likely they are holding a strong hand.

As you become more familiar with the game, you’ll also need to learn to be more assertive at the table. If you have a premium opening hand such as a pair of Kings or Queens, you should bet aggressively to price the weaker hands out of the pot. This will give you a much better chance of winning the hand in the long run. If you’re playing in a tournament, it will also prevent you from giving away your hand to the players on the other side of the table.