Poker is a game of incomplete information in which players try to form the best five card hand based on the rank of their cards. The player with the highest ranked hand wins the pot, which is the sum of all the chips bet so far in that betting interval.
In addition to knowing the rules, you need to understand how people play the game and what makes them tick. For instance, a good article about poker will include a discussion of the by-play between players, including tells (emotional cues like flinches and smiles). It should also discuss how to spot an bluff and the importance of table position.
Another important element of poker is the ability to decide under uncertainty. As former pro player Annie Duke puts it, this means having an open mind and estimating which outcomes are more likely than others. This is a skill that can be applied in many areas of life, not just in poker.
Finally, you need to be committed to improving your poker game over time. This will involve training your brain, developing a strong physical game and networking with other poker players. It will also involve choosing the right games for your bankroll, committing to smart bet sizes and positioning and learning about game theory. Above all, you will need to develop the mental discipline and perseverance to keep playing, even when luck is not going your way. This is what separates the winners from the losers, and is a key factor in success at anything.