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Betting Basics

How chips move, when to bet, and what the actions mean.

The Blinds

Before cards are dealt, two players must put money in the pot to start the action. These are forced bets.

Small Blind (SB) The player directly to the left of the Dealer. Posts half the bet.
Big Blind (BB) The player to the left of the SB. Posts the full bet.

Your Actions

When it is your turn, you have specific options depending on what previous players have done.

Check

Pass the action to the next player without betting. Only allowed if no one has bet yet.

Bet

Put the first chips into the pot. Others must now match your amount to stay in.

Call

Match the current highest bet to stay in the hand.

Raise

Increase the current bet. Others must now pay more to see the next card.

Fold

Give up your cards and lose any chips you put in the pot. You are out of the hand.

The Four Rounds

  • 1. Pre-Flop: Betting happens after you get your 2 hole cards, but before any community cards.
  • 2. The Flop: Three community cards are dealt face up. Another round of betting ensues.
  • 3. The Turn: A fourth community card is dealt. Betting continues.
  • 4. The River: The fifth and final card is dealt. Final betting round before showdown.