Whether you are playing a standard poker game or a’small’ one, there are a few basic rules that must be followed to ensure a win. The aim is to have the best hand possible. It is important to remember that there are three betting phases: preflop, flop and turn.

The first betting phase occurs after each player has been dealt cards. Each player must decide whether to bet or fold. If they choose to bet, they must place a certain amount of chips in the pot. If they choose to fold, they will drop their hand and not compete for the pot.

The second betting round occurs after the flop. The flop contains three different suits. It is possible to have a straight with five cards in sequential order, but no straight is possible if the flop contains three different suits.

The third and final betting phase occurs after the turn. The player who holds the best hand wins the pot. If no player has the highest hand, the pot is split equally among all players.

If one player raises the stake, everyone must fold. If two players raise, the remaining players must call. If three players raise, the stake is “capped” and the remaining players must call.

If all players call, the betting phase ends. When this happens, the dealer cuts the deck. The player to the right of the button deals the cards.

After the dealer has dealt the cards, all players have two cards in their hands. The first card of the hand is the highest, and the second card determines the winner.