Poker
The Basics of Poker
Poker is a card game that is played by betting chips. There are a few variations of poker, for example Texas Hold 'Em, Omaha and Seven Card Stud.
The dealer deals the appropriate number of cards to each player, one at a time. Cards are dealt either face up or face down depending on which type of poker game you are going to play. Once the cards are dealt the betting starts.
The aim of any form of poker game is to win the pot. The pot is put in the middle of the table and it contains the chips or money accumulated during that hand dealt.
During the betting round, if one player places a bet and no other player chooses to match that bet and instead they fold, then the hand ends immediately and the winner is then given the pot. Once the hand is over none of the players are required to show their cards.
If the players reach the end of the betting round, the players reveal their hands face up. The pot goes to the player with the highest hand.
Rank Of Hands
Royal Flush: This is the highest possible hand in poker. A Royal Flush is a high straight flush.
For Example: A, K, Q, J and 10 all of the same suit.
Straight Flush: This is the second highest possible hand in poker. A Straight Flush is a 5 card straight all in the same suit.
For Example: 9, 8, 7, 6 and 5 of the same suit.
Four of a Kind: Four cards of the same rank.
For Example: Four 7's.
Full House: A Full House contains three cards of the same rank and a pair (two cards) of another rank.
For Example: Three 8's and two 5's.
Flush: Any five cards of the same suit.
For Example: Any 5 clubs, diamonds, spades or hearts.
Straight: Five cards of sequential rank. They do not have to be the same suit.
For Example: 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 of any suit.
Three of a Kind: Three cards of the same rank.
For Example: Three 8's
Two Pair: Two cards of one rank and another two cards of one rank.
For Example: Two 3's and two 6's
Pair: Two cards of the same rank.
For Example: Two 10's
10 Beginners Tips
Beginner Tip 1
Always be aware of how many chips each player has. It’s safer to play hands with players who have fewer chips than you. Play carefully against players who have more chips than you.
Beginner Tip 2
Pay attention to who is playing aggressively or loose. Avoid the aggressive players unless you have a strong hand.
Beginner Tip 3
If your cards do not match any of the community cards rather fold.
Beginner Tip 4
Only play an ace when you have a card of the same suit or if you have a 10 or higher.
Beginner Tip 5
Always remember your hand rankings in poker. A royal flush is the highest possible hand in poker. A straight flush beats a four of a kind and a four of a kind beats a flush and a straight.
Beginner Tip 6
If you are one of the first players to bet, play fewer hands or you could become vulnerable to raises by other players. Watch players carefully.
Beginner Tip 7
Being aggressive is good, it make other players feel vulnerable.
Beginner Tip 8
Be patient, don’t act to quickly first look at the betting and then think of what your opponent might have.
Beginner Tip 9
Always change your playing style as it will disguise your cards from other players.
Beginner Tip 10
Never play in a hand that you can not afford to be in, rather fold and wait until you have a strong hand.
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