The game of poker is played with chips that represent money. Each player buys in for a fixed amount of chips at the beginning of the game. During the course of play, players place these chips into the pot when they believe that their action will yield positive long-run expected value. Some of these chips are forced by the rules of the particular game, but most are placed voluntarily.
In each betting round, the dealer deals three cards face-up on the table. These are community cards that everyone can use. This is called the flop. Then each player can decide to raise or fold their hand. If everyone else folds, then the dealer will reveal a fourth community card called the turn. Then the final betting round takes place and the player with the best 5-card poker hand wins the pot.
A common mistake that beginner players make is to ignore their position and the opponent’s cards. It’s also a mistake to hide their cards in their lap or in their pocket during a hand. It’s better to leave them on the table and in sight so that the dealer knows that you’re still in the hand. This allows the dealer to shuffle more easily and keeps the games fair for all players. Also, it allows you to avoid making mistakes that could cost you a big pot.