What Is Texas Hold’em?
Texas Hold’em is the most popular form of poker played in homes, casinos, and tournaments around the world. Each player receives two private cards and combines them with five community cards to make the best possible hand.
The Goal of the Game
The goal is to win chips by either making the best five-card poker hand or convincing the other players to fold before showdown.
The Dealer Button and Blinds
Before cards are dealt, two players post forced bets called the small blind and big blind. These rotate around the table each hand using the dealer button.
The Four Betting Rounds
Preflop
Each player receives two hole cards. Betting begins with the player to the left of the big blind.
The Flop
Three community cards are placed face up on the table.
The Turn
A fourth community card is dealt, followed by another round of betting.
The River
The fifth and final community card is revealed.
Showdown
If more than one player remains after the final betting round, the remaining players reveal their hands. The best five-card hand wins.
Basic Poker Hand Rankings
- Royal Flush
- Straight Flush
- Four of a Kind
- Full House
- Flush
- Straight
- Three of a Kind
- Two Pair
- One Pair
- High Card