Poker is a card game of chance, but it also requires skill. A good poker player knows how to read the other players in the game and can use this information to adjust their strategy throughout the course of the game. They can also learn to recognize tells, which are signs that a player is bluffing or weak.

Before the game begins, each player must buy in for a certain amount of chips. The player to their left then has the option of calling the bet by putting in the same number of chips or raising it. If a player does not want to call the bet, they can fold.

Once the betting is underway, it is important to keep in mind that a good poker player plays only strong hands and only raises when they have a high percentage of winning. This helps them avoid committing too much money to bad hands, which makes them harder for other players to beat.

It is also important to pay attention to the size of your opponent’s chip stacks. If they are short-stacked, they will be desperate to win and can be easier to bluff against. If they have a large stack, it is best to play conservatively because they are likely to call your bluffs.

Finally, a good poker player understands the importance of table etiquette. This includes being respectful of other players and dealers, avoiding arguments, and always tipping the dealer.