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In texas hold’em, the first step is to get the game started, and for this the competitors put out a set amount of cash. ‘Posting the blinds’ is the frequently used expression for this play. In the next step, the dealer shuffles the deck of cards and gives out two cards face down to every player. A normal deck of fifty two playing cards is used in the deal. After the deal, there is the initial sequence of betting. This sequence is normally referred to as a "pre-flop".

After the first betting sequence, the top card of the deck is tossed aside. This thrown away card is called the "burn card", and this is performed to ensure there is definitely no cheating. The next three cards are then revealed face up on the poker table. These cards are known as ‘the flop’. Now comes a second sequence of wagering, after that the croupier throws away another card and flips 1 more card onto the table. After this, competitors can employ the sixth card to create a 5card poker hand.

An additional round of wagering follows, and in a number of types of games, here is where the bet size doubles. There is a further round of tossing aside a card, and a final deal of a card face-up on the poker table. This is called the "river". Players can now make use of any of the five cards on the poker table, and/or the 2 cards that they hold, to form a 5card poker hand.

To wrap it up there is an additional round of wagering. Then, all the players left begin to show their hands. This is called the "showdown". Clearly, the player who holds the highest hand wins. When competitors have equal hands a splitting of the winnings is used.

Holdem is a basic game to pick up, but to acquire expertise one needs a ton of practice.