A Beginner’s Guide to Poker

Whether you’re a veteran poker player or an amateur, there are a few basics you’ll need to know. In addition to the basics, there are some specialized rules and customs that may vary from player to player and from game to game.

The first thing you should know is that poker is played with a standard pack of 52 cards. You’ll also need a few large chips, which you should place at the front of the table. Then you’ll need an ante amount, which varies from game to game.

The best hand is the straight flush, which is 5 cards of the same suit. This is also the best natural hand. In some games, you’ll be allowed to use wild cards, which can make five of a kind.

The highest hand wins the pot. This is especially true when there are multiple people tied for the highest card. When the high card breaks ties, it’s usually the jack of hearts or the king of diamonds. When there are no high cards, the king of spades is the highest card.

Aside from the straight flush, you’ll also need to know the names of some special cards. These include the joker, which counts as the fifth card in some games. Likewise, you’ll need to know the names of the aces, which can be high or low.

You’ll also need to know how to make a forced bet. These are bets you don’t want to make, but you have to make. They can be an ante or a blind bet.