How to Play Texas Holdem
Texas Holdem is easy to learn but takes time to master. Every game starts with two players making forced bets, called "blinds." The player to the left of the dealer posts the small blind, and the player two to the left of the dealer posts the big blind.
Once the blinds are posted, the dealer deals two cards to each player. These are the player's "hole cards." Players can look at their cards, but they must keep them hidden from the other players.
After the hole cards have been dealt, the first round of betting begins. During this round, the players can either bet, raise, or fold. Betting continues until all players have either matched the highest bet or folded.
After the first round of betting is complete, the dealer deals three community cards, called the "flop." These cards are face up and can be used by all players to make the best five-card hand. Another round of betting begins, and the players can choose to check, bet, raise, or fold.
Once the second round of betting is complete, the dealer deals one more card, called the "turn." Another round of betting begins, and the players can choose to check, bet, raise, or fold.
The final community card, called the "river," is dealt by the dealer. The final round of betting begins, and the players can choose to check, bet, raise, or fold. Once all players have either matched the highest bet or folded, the remaining players show their hands to determine who wins the pot.
