Explore everything about poker—from rules and strategies to terminology and tournament insights. Perfect for both beginners and experienced players.
1. Definition In poker, a “High Card” refers to the lowest-ranking hand, where no combinations (pairs, straights, flushes, etc.) are formed. The outcome is determined solely by the highest card in a player’s hand. 2. Background and Mechanics When no players form any standard poker hands, the High Card rule is applied. A player’s strongest … Read more
1. Definition In poker, “All-in” refers to a move where a player bets their entire remaining stack of chips in a single action. It is a form of betting that indicates full commitment to the current hand, leaving no chips behind. 2. Background and Mechanics A player goes all-in either when: After an all-in: 3. … Read more
1. Definition In poker, a “Check” is an action that allows a player to pass their turn without betting, provided no bet has been made in the current round. It’s a neutral move that keeps the player in the hand without committing additional chips. 2. Background and Mechanics During each betting round, if no … Read more
1. Definition In poker, a “Raise” is the action of increasing the current bet amount. When a player raises, they are challenging opponents to either call the new higher amount, re-raise, or fold. It’s a powerful tool to assert strength or apply pressure. 2. Background and Mechanics A raise is one of the core … Read more
1. Definition In poker, a “Call” is an action where a player matches the current bet made by another player, staying in the hand without raising or folding. It’s a way to continue playing without escalating the stakes. 2. Background and Mechanics Poker players act in turn. When someone bets or raises, the next … Read more
1. Definition In poker, a “Fold” is the action of discarding one’s hand and withdrawing from the current round of betting. It means surrendering the chance to win the pot and opting out of the hand. It is often referred to as “laying down” or “mucking” your cards. 2. Background and Mechanics Folding is … Read more
1. Definition In poker, a “Pot” refers to the total amount of chips wagered by players during a hand. It accumulates as players bet, call, and raise, and is ultimately awarded to the winning player or players at the end of the hand. 2. Background and Mechanics The pot is the central objective in … Read more
1. Definition In poker, an “Ante” is a small mandatory bet that every player contributes before a hand begins. It serves to create a pot and encourage action, giving players an incentive to compete for winnings. 2. Background and Mechanics Antes ensure that every hand has value and motivates players to engage rather than … Read more
1. Definition “Blinds” in poker are mandatory bets placed by players before any cards are dealt. They serve to initiate action and build the pot, ensuring that there is something at stake in every hand. There are two main types: 2. Background and Mechanics Blinds prevent games from stalling due to passive play (e.g., … Read more
1. Definition In card games and casino settings, a “Hand” refers to the specific set of cards dealt to a player, or the individual play unit within a round. It is the fundamental element used to determine actions and outcomes in games like poker, blackjack, and baccarat. 2. Background and Mechanics A Hand forms the … Read more