In the game of poker, each player makes a bet in an attempt to win the pot, the sum of all the bets placed during the hand. The aim of the game is to obtain the best hand, and convince the other players to fold their cards. Winning a hand requires luck, but knowing when to fold is just as important. The highest-ranking hand in poker is called a “pot”. This sum can be won by having the best five-card combination, or by making a bet and calling the other players.

Before a game of poker can begin, however, players must lay a foundation. In many poker games, players are required to contribute to the pot before the first bet is made. This is called the ante. Each player must place in the pot the same number of chips as the player who came before them. This player is said to be an “active” player. Typically, the first bet in a game of this type is made by the player who made the ante.

In almost all poker games, the players use poker chips. If there are seven or more players, poker chips should be provided. Each player begins by purchasing a chip. The lowest-value chip is a white chip, which is worth five cents. Next, each player makes a bet. When betting, a player is said to have “bought in” for the same amount as the previous players’ contributions. If a player has a hand worth more than five cents, they should bet and force the other players to fold.