Whether you play online or at a real-world table, poker is a great way to socialize with friends and have fun. But if you’re new to the game, there are some things you need to know before you dive in.

Learning the Rules:

One of the first things you need to learn is how to play a hand of poker. In most games, you’ll ante a small amount (this varies by game, but our games are typically nickels). After you’ve anteed your money, you’ll get dealt cards.

If you’re playing a draw, you’ll have the chance to discard up to three of your cards before the rest are shown. You’ll then make another round of betting, and the player with the best hand wins the pot.

Understanding Your Hand:

Once you’ve figured out how to shuffle and deal your cards, it’s time to start analyzing them. The first thing you should do is assess your flop, turn and river.

This will help you determine the strength of your hand and make a more educated decision on whether to call, raise or fold. But be sure to practice this skill a few times before you play your first real-money hand.

Watch the other Players:

Seeing what other people are holding can give you some useful insight into what they’re likely to have in their hands. It can be tricky at first, but you’ll get the hang of it. The key is to make educated guesses about what other people’s hands could be, and that will improve your own game!