Poker is a game that involves betting chips. A player may be able to add more chips to the pot during a betting interval, but they are generally not allowed to cash out until the game is over. Often, there are two or more betting intervals in a single game. Once the betting period has ended, the best poker hand is revealed.

Poker begins with an ante, or a small bet to begin the round. This is often $1 or $5, and is decided by the table. The dealer will then deal two cards to each player, and each player will choose to bet or check. The best hand will win the pot. When the game is over, the winning player will be the one to collect the money they put down in the buy-in.

Poker involves probability, and the higher the skill level of a player, the better their chances are to win. This makes it necessary to learn about probability. The more advanced a player is, the more he or she will be able to calculate the odds and make good decisions. Poker is a strategy game that requires a good understanding of probability and game theory.

In addition to cards, poker players need poker chips. These chips come in many colors, and should be available at the table for games with seven or more players. The lowest value is a white chip, while the highest value is a red chip. Then there are blue chips and dark chips.