The Basics of Poker

Poker is a card game where players compete for a pot of money. It is played in different forms, but all involve placing an initial bet before the cards are dealt. These bets come in three different types: ante, blinds and bring-ins.

Rules

During the first deal, each player is dealt a complete hand, face-down. In some variants, players may also be able to draw replacement cards before the betting round begins.

Betting rounds

A betting round is a period in which all players bet or raise their chips. The betting turns clockwise around the table.

Each player makes a bet during each betting interval; players can call, which means matching the previous bettor’s bet, or raise, which is a bet that is more than the last bet. If no one bets in a betting interval, a player can check; this is to stay in without making a bet.

When the betting round ends, each player must reveal their cards to everyone at the table. A player can also fold, which is to drop his hand and stop competing for the pot.