Poker is a game of strategy that puts an individual’s analytical, mathematical and interpersonal skills to the test. Moreover, research suggests that playing poker may actually improve cognitive abilities and even delay degenerative neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s or dementia.

Players begin each hand by “anteing” a small amount of money (amount varies by game; our games are typically a nickel). Then they are dealt two cards and a betting round begins. In a round of betting, a player can choose to fold (end the hand), call (put the same amount as the last person) or raise (bet a higher amount than the last).

Once all players have raised at least once, the first person to reveal their cards wins the pot. Players can have any combination of 5 cards, including one pair with three distinct cards; a flush with five consecutive cards of the same suit; and a straight with five unique cards. High card breaks ties.

Being the first to act gives you an advantage over your opponents because they cannot see what you have in your hand. This allows you to better bluff by raising with weaker hands or simply calling when you have a strong one. It also lets you control the pot size, meaning that you can inflate the pot when you have a good value hand or control it if you’re trying to bluff. It’s a great way to exercise mental discipline and learn how to read your opponents accurately.