Poker is an action game that demands a high degree of skill. This requires players to play a wide range of hands aggressively and use bankroll management and smart game selection to minimize losses with poor hands and maximize winnings with good hands.

The basic rules of poker are governed by the Rules of Poker, which are written and published by the International Poker Association. These rules govern the playing of the game at clubs and casinos worldwide.

Throughout the game, all players should observe official betting terms. These are time-honored, unmistakable, and simple declarations such as bet, raise, call, fold, check, all-in, complete, and pot (pot-limit only). Regional terms may also meet this standard.

In addition to these rules, a player must be alert and continuously observe other players. This includes paying attention to the action of the dealer and the other players in the pot.

A player may also be required to act by push out chips when he receives incorrect information about the amount of an opponent’s bet from the dealer or another player. This is known as angle shooting and is an unethical move that can be detrimental to a player’s bankroll and etiquette.

Other etiquette violations include: persistent delay of the game, unnecessarily touching another player’s person, cards or chips, repeatedly acting out of turn, maintaining poor card or chip visibility and countability, betting out of reach of the dealer, abusive conduct, offensive hygiene, and excessive chatter. Such behavior will result in penalties under Rule 71.