Poker is a card game in which players place bets, called chips, into a common pot based on how good their hand is. Most poker games require a compulsory bet at the beginning of each deal, usually referred to as a blind or an ante. Then players are dealt cards that they keep hidden from the other players. The object of the game is to win the pot, which is the sum total of all bets made in one deal. This can be done by having the highest-ranking hand or by making a bet that no other player calls.
While the outcome of any single hand involves a significant amount of chance, in the long run the best players will always win. To become a good player, you should practice and watch experienced players to develop quick instincts. It can be hard to learn, but it is important to work on your game regularly.
You can also improve your skills by studying the rules and strategy of different poker variations. In particular, it is a good idea to read books and articles on poker tells, which are unconscious habits a player exhibits that reveal information about their hand.
Before you start writing, decide on a topic and keep a file of poker hands that are relevant to your subject matter. This will help you build up a library of examples that you can use as references when you write your book.