When it comes to poker there is a lot of luck involved, but it also requires a certain amount of skill. The best way to learn is by playing the game often and watching experienced players. This will allow you to develop quick instincts and improve your chances of winning. Once you have a basic understanding of the game you should be ready to play for real money!
When you play poker you usually buy in for a specified number of chips. Typically each player will purchase 200 chips to begin the game. A white chip is worth a single unit of the minimum ante or bet; a red chip is worth five whites; and a blue chip is worth 10 or 20 whites.
After everyone has bought in for the first betting round the dealer will deal three cards to the table that anyone can use. This is called the flop. Once the flop is dealt you will have to decide whether to call or raise. If you have a strong hand you should raise to price out weaker hands and increase the value of your pot.
If you have a weak hand you should probably fold and move on. If you have a good hand it is generally worth trying to hit a draw. However you need to be careful as a weak draw can easily get you beat. The best strategy is to always think about your opponents range when making a decision.