Note: bets and raises are limited to 1 bet and 3 raises per
betting round. Therefore, in the $10/$20 stake example,
betting would be capped at a total of $40 in rounds 1 and 2,
and $80 in rounds 3 and 4.
Starting a Game
: the game starts with the two players to the left of
the dealer posting a Big Blind and a Small Blind, the value
being determined by the stakes of the game. Then the four
pocket cards are dealt to each player.
The betting begins
with the player to the left of the Big Blind.
Because the
blinds are considered bets, not antes, players cannot check in
the first betting round; they must either fold, call or raise.
Second Round : after the first round is
complete, three cards (the flop) are dealt face up on the
table. These cards are communal to all players. Betting starts
with the player to the left of the dealer button and he/she
may either check or bet.
Third Round : for
the third round, a fourth communal card (called the turn) is
dealt, and another round of betting begins.
Fourth
Round : a final communal card called the river is
dealt, and is followed by another round of betting.
Players then make the best high hands possible using two
of their four pocket cards and three of the board.
This is
important for newcomers to the game to remember: hands must
consist of two pocket cards and three communal cards.
Tips
. High pairs and high suited
connectors in the pocket are the best starting hands.
. In
a game with a lot of players, say 8 to 10, it is very common
for someone to have the best possible hand at the showdown. If
you have a good hand, but not the best possible hand, be
careful
