Poker is a card game of betting and strategy that has become one of the most popular games in the world. It is played in casinos, card clubs, and private homes. It is also a major spectator sport. It has been called the national card game of the United States, and its play and jargon have permeated American culture.

Each player begins the game by buying in for a set number of chips. A white chip is worth the minimum ante, and each color represents a different amount of money: a blue chip is worth five whites, a red chip is worth 10 whites, and so on. Players may “call” (match) the bet, raise it, or fold their cards. The highest ranked hand wins the pot.

Once the first round of betting is complete the dealer deals three cards face up on the table that anyone can use. This is known as the flop.

After the flop there is another round of betting. After that the dealer puts a fourth card on the board that everyone can use, this is known as the turn.

If there is a high pair or a straight then the players with those hands win. If the hands are identical then it is a tie and the highest ranking card breaks the tie. It is important to keep your opponents guessing as to what you have in your hand. If they always know what you have then it will be difficult to get paid off on your big hands and you won’t be able to make as many bluffs.