Poker is a card game played by two or more players. It is a game of chance, but betting introduces skill and psychology into the equation. A strong knowledge of the rules is critical before attempting to play poker, especially in a group setting.

Players must ante something (amount varies by game) to be dealt cards, after which they can fold, call (match the amount of the last player to stay in the pot), or raise. The highest hand wins the pot.

Top players often fast-play their hands, a tactic that can help them win more money. They also watch other players for tells, or nervous habits, such as fiddling with chips or a ring. They also study other players’ betting patterns to determine if they are holding a strong or weak hand, which is essential in making good decisions.

Trying to hit a draw in poker is often not worth it unless you have the strongest possible hand. When deciding whether to stay in a hand, consider the odds and potential returns – if they don’t work in your favor, you should usually fold.

Promoting an event like a poker run can be done in a variety of ways, from social media to good old-fashioned word of mouth. Asking influential people in your community to participate can give you a major boost, too. If they’re excited about your event, they’ll spread the word! And they might even bring some friends along.