Poker is a card game of chance and risk. Despite the many different variations, the basic game is the same: players place a forced bet (called an “ante”) before seeing their cards and then place additional money into the pot when it comes their turn to act. The highest ranked hand wins the pot. The game also involves bluffing and deception, and the odds of winning any particular hand depend on the decisions made by the players at the table.
There are a lot of great resources on the internet that will help you learn poker basics and strategies. However, the best way to get a feel for the game is to play with people in person. Ask around and find a local home game where you can join in the fun. The people you play with will be a big part of your success in poker, so take the time to find a group of people that you enjoy playing with.
Another great resource is YouTube poker channels. There are a lot of great poker coaches that offer good, free content on their channels. You can watch their videos on your computer or phone. It’s important to find a coach that you trust and who has a good style that resonates with you. Don’t be afraid to try different styles of play and learn from your mistakes. One common mistake that new players make is looking for cookie-cutter advice like “always 3bet x hands” or “always check-raise your flush draws.” Each spot is unique and there are a lot of variables to consider in each decision.