“The name of the game is No Limit Texas Hold’em, the game that takes a minute to learn but a lifetime to master”
–Mike Sexton
Poker is a popular American card game that has spread to all parts of the world over the past couple of decades. The most popular version of poker by far is Texas Hold’em. The game is simple to learn and pick up. This article will summarize the general rules on how to play. Be sure to check out links to other articles and videos I have made which can help you become a better player.
To summarize:
- One player is the dealer (or has the dealer position)
- The two players to the left of the dealer post the small and big blinds
- Two hole cards are dealt face-down to each player
- First round of betting begins, starting with the player to the left of the big blind
- The first 3 community cards are dealt face-up on the table (the flop)
- A second round of betting begins, starting with the active player to the left of the dealer
- A 4th community card is dealt face-up on the table (the turn)
- A third round of betting takes place
- A 5th community card is dealt face-up on the table (the river)
- A final round of betting takes place
- If at least two players remain, we have a showdown and the player with the best poker hand wins the money in the pot
- Players may use 5 of any combination of their 2 hole cards and 5 community cards to make their best 5-card poker hand
- If all but one player fold in any betting round, the last player in the hand immediately wins the pot and does not have to show their hole cards
- The position of dealer passes to the next player to the left and a new hand begins
For additional details on how to play Hold’em, please watch the video above. If you are new to poker hand rankings, check out this article to learn more.
A great way to learn is to practice the game. What better way than with a group of friends! Check out our free online home game to find out more.