Poker is a card game with a lot of psychology and skill. It becomes a much more interesting game when betting is introduced, because the players are forced to make decisions based on real probabilities and odds.
The game starts with each player putting in a small amount of money, called the ante, to get dealt cards. Once everyone has 2 cards, there is a round of betting. The highest hand wins the pot. During each betting interval, or round, a player can either “call” the bet made by the player to their left, raise their own bet, or fold.
Once the flop is dealt, there is another round of betting, starting with the player to the left of the dealer. The players have a total of 7 cards to use: their two personal cards and the 5 community cards. A high hand is comprised of 4 matching cards of the same rank and 2 unmatched cards. A flush is 5 cards in consecutive rank, all from the same suit. A straight is 5 cards in sequential order, but from more than one suit.
To be a good writer about poker, you need to understand the game well and be able to tell a story that engages your audience. It is also important to keep up with the latest developments in the game and learn its many variations. Reading about tournament results and watching experienced players is a great way to develop your own instincts.