Learning to Play Texas Holdem Poker

While Texas Holdem Poker is easy to learn, the pros all agree it takes a lifetime to master. But it is worth taking the time to get to grips with this game, because if you want to play, you are almost certainly going to find a game of Texas Holdem Poker.

The dealer and blinds

The game begins with one player designated as the dealer and a small white disc is placed in front of him to denote his status.

Sat to the dealer's left is the small blind, with the big blind sitting to the small blinds left. The blinds must make a forced bet before they see their cards, thus they are betting blind. The cost of the blind bets is determined before play begins.

Hole cards and actions

After the blinds have paid their dues, each player is dealt two cards - known as "hole" cards. You can look at your cards, but make sure you dont show them to anyone else.

Play begins with the player on the left of the big blind. He has three options. He can fold, call or raise.

If he doesn't like his hole cards he will fold, discarding his cards and taking no further part in the hand.

If he wants to call he must match the bet of the big blind.

If he wants to raise he must bet at least double the big blind. If you are playing No Limit Texas Holdem Poker your raise is only limited in size by the amount of money you have in play.

Play continues clockwise until all betting is complete.

The flop

After all players have acted, three cards are dealt face up in the centre of the table. This is known as the flop.

Another round of actions begins, this time starting with the small blind. If he has folded, then the first player to his left who is still in the hand starts off the round.

A player may check or do nothing if he doesn't want to bet. But if one player bets, his opponents must either call, fold or raise.

Once all actions are completed, we move to the turn.

The turn

After the actions from the flop round have concluded, another card is dealt face up in the centre of the table. This card is known as the turn.

Again another round of actions follows in the same order as the flop.

The river

A final card is dealt face up in the centre of the table, known as the river.

Another round of actions ensues and if more than one player still remains in the pot after all actions are completed, a showdown occurs. The players that are still involved in the hand reveal their hole cards, and the player who can make the best five card poker hand using the five face up cards and his two hole cards wins the pot.

You now know the basics of Texas Holdem Poker, so grab a deck of cards and a few friends and give it a go. If you prefer, you can play online at one of our featured poker rooms and let the software take care of all the complicated actions so you just concentrate on your decisions.