Poker is a card game that involves betting and has some skill involved. However, the amount of skill in the game depends on how much money is at stake. If nothing is at risk, there is little to no skill involved and poker becomes a game of pure chance (although some players will still make good decisions). When money is involved, the ability to read the table and use psychology can lead to a large advantage over weaker opponents.
The game of poker starts when each player receives 2 hole cards and a round of betting begins. Each player must place chips into the pot, called blinds, that are equal to or more than the total contribution made by the players before them. The player with the highest ranked hand wins the pot.
When a strong hand is dealt, a top player will bet early and often to build the pot and chase off any draws that may beat them. This strategy is called fast playing and it can be very profitable.
If you are new to poker, start at the lowest limits available and practice versus weaker players. This will allow you to learn the game and develop your skill level without donating large sums of money to other players who are much better than you right now. Also, try to keep a journal of your hands. Reviewing your past hands will allow you to analyze your mistakes and learn from them. Over time, this will also help you internalize poker numbers like frequencies and EV estimation and begin to have a natural consideration for these in your play.
