Poker is a game that puts your analytical, mathematical and interpersonal skills to the test. It’s also a game that indirectly teaches life lessons, including the importance of patience and the ability to evaluate situations from all angles before making a decision.

The first step in learning poker is understanding the rules of the game and familiarizing yourself with the terminology. There are some basic terms that every player should know, such as “ante,” which refers to the small amount of money each person must put up before seeing their cards; “call,” meaning you want to match the previous bet amount; and “raise,” indicating that you’re going to add more to the pot.

Once you have a good grasp of these terms, it’s time to start playing! However, before you start gambling your hard-earned cash, be sure to manage your bankroll and play within your means. It’s also important to practice the art of reading your opponents and develop a feel for the game.

One of the best ways to pick up tells is by watching players when they’re not involved in a hand. This allows you to take a more detached approach and notice little details that might otherwise go unnoticed.