Poker is a game that involves learning and applying many skills. From dealing with pressure to managing a bankroll, the game is full of lessons that can be applied to every aspect of life. It is also a game that can help improve concentration and observational skills, both of which are important for any career.

Poker can be a highly profitable game if you can play your cards right and get value from your strong hands, as well as exploit opponents’ weaknesses with bluffs. This strategy requires a high level of concentration and observation as it’s essential to pay attention to your opponents, not only their actions at the table but how they deal with the cards, their body language and their betting patterns.

After the dealer has dealt each player 2 hole cards, there is a round of betting. This betting is initiated by 2 mandatory bets called blinds that players place into the pot before they can act. These bets are necessary to ensure that there is action at the table and provide an incentive for players to play.

Throughout the course of a hand, players will raise and call each other bets depending on what they think they have. When you say “call” or “I call” it means you are going to bet the same amount as the person who raised before you, or even raise more. This is how you get value from your strong hands and control the size of the pot.