Poker is a game that requires a great deal of concentration and memory, as well as the ability to make good decisions in situations where you don’t have all the facts. It’s a perfect way to build these skills, and a lot of Wall Street executives play it because they say it makes them better investors.
Players start with two cards, called their “hole” cards. They then place bets using their chips. There are usually several rounds of betting before a fifth card is dealt, called the river. This is the part of the game where you can really improve your chances of winning if you have strong hands.
When you’re not thinking about your own cards, pay close attention to the other players. Look for their subtle physical poker “tells” like scratching your nose or fiddling with their chips. And watch their patterns, because a player who constantly calls and then raises on the flop is probably holding a strong hand.
When it’s your turn, you can say “call” to match the last person’s bet or “raise” to add more money to the pot. Or, if you have a weak hand, you can fold and let someone else win the pot. When everyone’s finished, the best five-card hand wins.
