Poker is a card game played by two or more players and involves betting on the outcome of a hand. Depending on the rules, one or more players may be required to place an initial amount of money into the pot before cards are dealt; these are called forced bets and come in three forms: antes, blinds, and bring-ins. Players can then choose to fold, call, or raise (bet a higher amount than a previous player’s bet).

The game is often played in tournament format with multiple rounds of betting. Players are typically seated in a circle around the table and have their own stack of chips. Each round of betting begins when the dealer deals each player two cards face down. After the first round of betting, a third card is dealt to the table (called the flop). There is another round of betting and then, finally, a fifth and final community card is dealt (called the river).

In life as in poker, we must weigh our options carefully and make decisions that maximize our profit. This requires a high level of comfort with risk-taking and the ability to evaluate a situation in light of our own strengths, weaknesses, and resources. Moreover, it is essential to be able to make quick decisions under pressure. These are the meta-skills that separate the known from the unknown, the controllable from the uncontrollable. If you can master these skills, you will be a successful poker player and a more effective individual in all aspects of your life.