Some Poker Basics
Introduction
Here at pokertipsbook we’re all for explaining beginners can learn to play and enjoy poker. Whilst we’ve loads of great articles and items about the various aspects of playing poker, before you can get started actually playing poker you really need a short and simple basic poker introduction. So, based on playing a version of poker called Texas Hold ‘em – here is that basic introduction that anyone should be able to follow.
Poker terms
OK, first of all poker has a language all of its own, which until you understand some of the really basic stuff – you’ll just sit there mystified as to what all the other players are talking about. Before any cards are dealt two players have to place what are called blind bets. There’s a small and a big blind, with the big blind being twice the value of the small one. Everyone then gets two cards dealt to them, which you don’t let other players see, called hole cards. Players can now either fold – throw their hand in, call – place a bet that matches the big blind or raise – increase the amount being bet. All the money or chips on the table are called the pot. With that round of betting done there comes the flop, three cards are dealt face up for all to see on the table – community cards. Another round of betting follows, then another community card is dealt, commonly known as the turn. There’s another round of betting followed by the final, fifth, community card known as the river. You’re now at the showdown - the final round of betting. The winner is the person that can make up the best combination of cards using their two hole cards and any three from the community cards. We’ve got another easy to follow article you can read about the winning poker hand rankings.
Fold, Call or Raise?
Has she seen a raise - or doesn't she know whether to turn or fold?
Excuse the pun but until you’ve got your hand in at the game of poker – caution is always to be recommended when it comes to betting. If you’ve got a rubbish couple of hole cards fold, if the hole cards and the flop cards look weak – fold etc. This may well mean that you’re folding an awful lot initially – but you can still see the community cards and learn what might have been possible with your hand. Conversely, if you get a couple of reasonable, let alone good, hole cards then it’s always worth waiting to see what comes along at the flop etc, and never disgrace an ace! So, with good cards at least call the bet, but unless you are suddenly presented with a royal or straight flush - it’s probably best not to go raising too quickly.