Assuming that you already have a grasp on poker hand ranking, this page will walk you through the rest of the basic rules of Texas Holdem.
In Texas Holdem, two cards are dealt to each player face down (hole cards). After the cards are dealt and each player takes a peak at their own cards, a round of betting takes place. On the first round, each player has the option of calling, raising the blind bet (see below) or even folding (but no checking). Most online casinos permit a bet and 3 or 4 raises for each betting round. Sometimes, when there are only two actual players going for the pot, there might not be any limit to raising at all.
After the first round of betting in done, three common cards are dealt face up to the middle of the playing table. This is known as the flop. Then, another round of betting takes place. On this round (and each succeeding round), players are able to check if no other players have placed a bet before them. If there is no bet, players can check or bet. If there is a bet, players can fold, call, raise, or even re-raise.
Next, a fourth common card is dealt to the middle of the playing table for all to see. This is known as the turn. Then, another round of betting takes place. After the round of betting is complete, a final (fifth) common card is dealt face up to the middle of the playing area for all players to see. This is known as the river. Then, the last round of betting takes place. At this time, each player that is still in the game will play their best five card poker hand to determine the winner of the game.
Blind Bet (from above) – Prior to the cards being dealt, the first two players that are sitting to the left of the dealer are required to to post blind bets. This is done instead of an ante. It gets the action going.
Keep in mind, while this game is loaded with excitement, there are more details you should know. This game may look like 7 card stud, but rest assured – it plays differently. We will get more into this in our Texas Holdem Strategy sections.