Poker Rules

Poker is one of the most popular games in the world, and Texas Hold ‘Em in particular is the game of choice. However, before playing, it is helpful to know the rules of the game. In poker, the best hand from the examples below wins. Here is how all the hands rank with examples:

1 – Royal flush. Five consecutive cards of the same suit, 10 through ace. For instance, 10s, Js, Qs, Ks, As.

2 – Straight flush. Five consecutive suited cards. Example 2s-3s-4s-5s-6s.

3 – Four of a kind. All four of the same cards in a deck (example: Ks, Kc, Kd, Kh).

4 - Full house. Three of one cards and two of an another (example: Js, Jd, Jh, 2h, 2s).

5 – Flush, Five cards of the same suit, non consecutive.

6- Straight, five consecutive cards of different suits.

7 – Three of a kind.

8 – Two pair

9 – Pair

10 – High card.

In Texas Hold ‘Em, there are two forced bets called “blinds;” a small blind and a big blind. The small blind is generally half the big blind. The player to the right of the blinds is the dealer, and he is the last to act after the flop.

The game begins when the dealer starts dealing cards, one at a time, starting with the big blind. Each player gets two face down cards. The player immediately to the left of the big blind is the first to act (this is also called under the gun). Players can call the big blind, raise the pot or fold.

After the first round of betting, there is a flop, with three community cards dealt face up, followed by a round of betting. Then another face up community card (called the turn) and another round of betting. Finally the river and another round of betting. The best combined five cards of the seven make the best hand.

In poker, 52 card decks are used, although in some home games jokers may be used. Cards should always be shuffled before every hand and counted when a new deck is brought out for play.

There also rules of poker etiquette.

There are additional rules player should follow; never act out of turn. Wait for you turn before you act.

Players are not allowed to collaborate, or show their cards while a hand is still in play.

Verbal declarations are binding. If you say “all in,” you have committed your chips, even if you are joking.

Don’t stall the game for no reason. Intentionally slow rolling isn’t fair to other players and accomplishes absolutely nothing at a table.

Don’t talk about other player’s hands when you are not in the hand and others have yet to act.

Profanity, yelling and screaming, berating dealers is something that isn’t helpful or necessary. Many poker rooms will kick you out for such behavior. Many of these are not hard and fast rules, but guidelines. Regardless, you need to have an understanding of them before playing your own games.

Following rules and etiquette will make for a much more enjoyable game for the players you are playing as well as yourself. Take some time to understand the basics, how card values work and how you should treat others. If you do, you will find yourself enjoying the game more.