Poker is a game that takes a bit of luck (as in short term) and a lot of skill to play well. The best players are able to rise above the madness and make long term decisions for their own success.
All players must first ante up some amount of money into the pot. Then 2 mandatory bets, called blinds, are put into the pot by the players to the left of the dealer. After the antes and blinds are paid out there is a round of betting where each player must either call or raise their bets if they think they have a good hand. The player with the best hand wins the pot.
A poker hand must contain at least two distinct pairs and a high card to win. High cards break ties between hands.
Once everyone has called all of the bets then another card is dealt. Then the players reveal their hands. Only hands that are still in the game can be seen – folded hands are not revealed. The winner then takes their chips and the pot is re-opened for another deal.
If you are new to poker, then be sure to read up on the rules and hand rankings before playing for real money. There are plenty of great resources on the internet as well as many books that can get you started. Also, be sure to find a poker table that uses play money if you are just starting out – it will allow you to practice without risking any of your own money.