Poker is a card game in which players wager money on the outcome of a random distribution of cards. It contains some strategic elements, but it is largely a game of chance. Players can improve their chances of winning by learning and practicing. While luck does play a role, skill can outweigh it in the long run.

The goal is to form a poker hand based on the ranking of the cards you have, and to win the pot at the end of the betting round. The pot is the sum of all bets made by all players in a given deal, and you can win it either by having the highest-ranking hand or by making a bet that no one else calls.

In addition to learning strategy, poker also teaches patience and discipline. It can be easy to act rashly or get emotional while playing poker, but consistent practice can help you learn to control your emotions and stay focused on the game. Poker also requires you to take the time to analyze your own game, which can lead to improved self-examination and a more focused approach.

There are several different forms of poker, but most involve six or seven players. The game’s earliest origins are unclear, but it is likely to have evolved from earlier vying games such as Pochen (German, 16th – 18th centuries), Post and Pair (English, 17th – 19th centuries), Brag (18th century), and Bouillotte (20th century). These games may have been influenced by a variety of other card games including dice, backgammon, and cribbage.