Poker is played for money – often pennies and matchsticks at social games, or millions on the pro circuit. But it’s a game of skill, and the most successful players know how to read tells from their opponents and make intelligent decisions. While a great deal of variation exists in how the game is played – there are a few basic rules that must be followed to ensure fair play.

A poker hand comprises five cards. The value of a card is in inverse proportion to its mathematical frequency; the more unusual the combination, the higher the rank of the hand. Players may bluff, betting that they have a superior hand when they do not, thereby forcing other players to call the bet or concede.

Exposed cards must be dealt with on a case-by-case basis, in accordance with the rules for the particular poker form being played. If a player flashes a card, it will play; the procedure for exposing a downcard during a deal varies with the poker form; and the dealer has the final decision about whether or not to replace an exposed upcard.

Only chips in a player’s hand at the beginning of a deal may play; however, a player may “play behind” for an amount of purchased chips while awaiting their arrival. All players must keep their hands in clear view, at least above table-level, and may not cover their cards. Frequent or continuous absence from a table may result in the forfeiture of your chips.