Poker is a game of chance where the outcome depends on the actions of players. The rules of each game vary slightly, but the basic principles are almost always the same.

First, the players place a small bet called an “ante”. Once everyone has their ante, they are dealt two cards. These cards are kept secret from their opponents.

Second, players take turns betting in a series of betting rounds, and after each round, the player with the best hand wins the pot. If more than one player remains in contention, a showdown takes place where each player’s cards are revealed and the winner is determined.

Third, there are different forms of poker depending on the number of players and betting intervals. These variations include Texas Hold’em, draw poker, and stud poker.

Fourth, a “pot” is the sum of all bets in any given deal. This is usually awarded to the highest hand as per the standard poker hand ranking, but in some games the pot may be awarded to the lowest hand instead.

Fifth, a “cap” on how much a player may raise or bet in any given betting interval is established by the specific game. This is usually a fixed amount and increases after each betting round.

The main goal of poker is to win the pot, which is the aggregate of all bets made in any one deal. The pot can be won by having the best poker hand or by making a bet that no other player calls.