How to Play Poker

Poker is a game of chance played with cards. It is commonly played in casinos. However, it also can be played in private homes. The number of players involved in a game may vary, depending on the rules. Typically, it is played with six to eight people.

The objective of the game is to make the best poker hand. The hand is determined by showing the cards. When the hand is tied, the highest card wins. The lowest hand is 7-5-4-3-2, if two or more suits are in play.

If no other player calls, the pot is won. The pot is the combined sum of all bets made by all players in one deal. If there are no winners, the pot is divided equally among all the remaining players.

The first player to make a bet is called the first bettor. He has the right to check or raise in later betting intervals. If he checks, he cannot compete for the pot. If he raises, he can only compete for the pot if he is able to match the bet.

The ante is the amount each player must contribute to the pot. The ante is usually a fixed amount, but some house rules allow it to be doubled when there are few or no raises.

Each player is dealt five cards. They may be face up, down, or both. If there is a tie, the highest unmatched fifth card is the winner.