While poker may seem like a game of chance, the addition of betting and psychology adds a layer of skill. This poker primer serves as an introduction to the game and its rules. To gain further knowledge, you can read a book or join a group of players. However, this can cost money, and you will learn more in real time.

Poker is a card game played with multiple players. The ideal number is six to eight players. The sum of all the bets made by all players in a single deal is known as the pot. A player can win the pot by either having the highest ranking poker hand or by betting on a hand that no other player calls.

Each player starts with an ante, which may vary from game to game. After that, he or she may bet into the center pot. Depending on the type of game being played, the highest hand wins the pot. The betting process proceeds clockwise. After placing an ante, a player has three options: to raise his or her initial bet, to fold his or her hand, or to fold his or her hand and draw another card.

The dealer is responsible for dealing the cards. In some variants of poker, the dealer is a non-player. In these cases, the dealer can be a friend or relative. If a player is unable to play the game, the dealer can take over. A dealer is also required to shuffle the cards each time they deal the cards.