Basic Rules and Guidlines for How to Play Texas Hold 'Em Poker

Texas Hold ‘Em is a variation of poker that is played worldwide in casinos, and even on high profile televised competitions. Due to these televised competitions and celebrity tours, Texas Hold ‘Em has gained popularity in the past couple of years. The game is very simple to play.

Play begins with the dealer shuffling a standard 52 card deck. Most games begin with the two players sitting to the left of the dealer putting a preset amount into the pot before any cards are dealt, and is called “posting the blinds.” This ensures that there is something to play for in every hand. Generally, the “first blind” (the player to the left of the dealer) puts up half of the minimum bet, and the “second blind” puts up the full minimum bet. After blinds are posted, each player is dealt two cards, face down. These are known as the “hole cards.” A round of betting then takes place, beginning with the player to the left of the two players who posted the blinds. Players may call, raise, check, or fold when it is their turn to bet.