Poker is a card game that can be played by two or more players. The object of the game is to form a winning hand based on card rankings, in order to win the pot, which is the sum total of all bets made during a single betting interval. Depending on the game rules, an initial contribution of chips (representing money) must be placed into the pot before the cards are dealt. These forced bets are called antes, blinds or bring-ins.

Successful poker players must possess several skills to succeed, including patience, reading other players, and adaptability. They must also understand how to calculate pot odds and percentages, and have the discipline to wait for optimal hands and proper position. The ability to recognize when to walk away from a bad game is crucial as well.

The game offers many mechanisms by which players can strategically misinform each other about the strength of their hands. For example, players with weak hands may bet small amounts to keep the pot growing, while players with strong hands will bet large sums to intimidate other players into folding before the showdown.

A good poker player must be able to read his or her opponents’ expressions and body language to anticipate their actions. This skill is especially important when bluffing, as it can help the player to avoid calling bets with a weak hand and allowing other players to steal the pot.

Besides learning to read other players, a good poker player must be able to manage his or her bankroll. This means playing within his or her financial and emotional limits, and refusing to move up in stakes when losing. It is also essential to learn to be patient and accept defeat when necessary.

In addition to the skills listed above, a good poker player must be a smart gamer. He or she must choose the right games for his or her bankroll, and know how to maximize profits in each game. This involves using good table selection, choosing the best game variants, and maximizing action on good hands. A good poker player should also commit to practicing his or her game as much as possible, and be ready to adjust strategies when necessary.