How to Play Online Poker

Among the various card games played, poker is one of the most popular. It can be found in private homes, clubs, and casinos. It is a simple game that requires skill and strategy. There are different variations of the game, and each has its own set of rules. Some versions of poker allow players to bluff, while others are played for money.

The basic rules of poker involve betting with chips. The first player to make a bet is called the bettor. He must place the smallest bet in the first betting interval, and then raise by placing more chips in the pot.

The second betting round occurs after the flop. The third betting round takes place after the turn, and the fourth round occurs after the river. The final round of betting is known as the showdown.

If a player does not call the previous bettor’s bet, the player is said to fold. If a player folds, he forfeits the right to the original pot. Alternatively, he may check. A player who checks is also said to stay in without making a bet.

A player who raises is said to call. A player who folds is said to drop. The player who drops out of the side pot loses the rights to the original pot.

The dealer is the last player to shuffle his pack. Then, the dealer “burns” a card from the top of the deck. The cards are then distributed among the active players.