Poker is a game that has a lot of nuances and rules that can seem daunting to those just learning the game. However, like most other games, the basics of poker are relatively simple.

Players start the hand by putting in two mandatory bets called blinds before being dealt cards that they keep hidden from the other players. There is then a round of betting in which each player can choose to fold, call or raise the amount that the person on their left has bet.

Position is important in poker because it gives you information about the possible hands that other players may have. For example, if the flop shows two spades and you have a pair of fives then you know that a lot of other people will probably have three-of-a-kind or a flush. This makes your bluffing easier and more effective as you can raise the value of your bets by threatening to beat a good hand.

Many new players are tempted to look for cookie-cutter advice and want to hear about specific strategies that they can apply to every situation they encounter. While some of this is helpful, it is more important to learn game theory and improve your decision making skills rather than just memorize a set of rules that will work in all spots. Use books and online resources to learn the game, but don’t be afraid to seek out coaching to help you fine-tune your understanding of poker strategy and how to read a table.