Texas Holdem Rules

Introduction

As in most poker variations, Texas Holdem ia quite easy to learn, and will actually take just a few minutes. Mastering the game, however, requires constant learning and improvement. So how about it? shall we get started? 

The Dealer

To determine who begins the game a single card is dealt to each player. The player with the highest card will be the first dealer. The dealer position is marked by a white plastic chip referred to as the button. After each round of play, or a hand, the dealer button rotates to the left, ensuring that everyone gets to play in all positions.

Blinds

Before the players get to see their personal cards, the two players to the left of the dealer are forced to post their bets, called the big blind and the small blind. After the blinds are posted, the two personal cards are revealed. Then the other players, starting the player on the left side of the big blind have the right to fold (give up the game), to call (match the big blind), or to raise (increase the bet). This is the first round of betting.

Flop

After the first round of betting, three community cards are revealed. This is the Flop. Then the second round of betting begins, with the first player to the left of the dealer. He has three options: check (remain in the game without posting any bet), bet or fold (leave the game). The remaining players must then decide whether to call, raise or fold. If no bet has been placed yet in this round, the remaining players can check as well.

Turn and the River

After the second round of betting the fourth community card is revealed. This is the Turn. The third round of betting is held, with the same alternatives as before. Then the fifth community card is revealed. This is the  River. After all community cards are revealed, the fourth and final round is held, again with the same alternatives.

Showdown

After all bets are placed, all players must show their cards. The showdown begins with the player who placed the last bet and continues clockwise. The player with the best hand wins the pot. If two players have the exactly same hand, they split the pot.