Getting Started with Texas Hold’em

Texas Hold’em is the most popular poker variant in the world. Whether you’re playing at home with friends or in a casino, understanding the basics is essential.

The Basics

Each player receives two private cards (known as “hole cards”). Five community cards are dealt face-up on the “board.” The best five-card poker hand using any combination of hole cards and community cards wins.

Hand Rankings

From highest to lowest:

1. Royal Flush – A, K, Q, J, 10, all of the same suit
2. Straight Flush – Five cards in sequence, all of the same suit
3. Four of a Kind – Four cards of the same rank
4. Full House – Three of a kind plus a pair
5. Flush – Any five cards of the same suit
6. Straight – Five cards in sequence
7. Three of a Kind – Three cards of the same rank
8. Two Pair – Two different pairs
9. One Pair – Two cards of the same rank
10. High Card – When no other hand is made

Betting Rounds

A hand of Texas Hold’em consists of four betting rounds:

Basic Strategy Tips

• Position is power – Acting later gives you more information
• Be selective with starting hands – Don’t play every hand
• Pay attention to your opponents – Look for patterns and tells
• Manage your bankroll – Never play with money you can’t afford to lose

Next Steps

Ready to dive deeper? Check out our strategy guides for more advanced concepts like pot odds, position play, and reading opponents.