Official poker rules are used to keep the game fair and to protect players. They are widely accepted and are free for anyone to use and copy. However, it is important to give proper credit to the authors and publishers of the rulebook. Official rules are not meant to be used in competitions or for profit, and are designed to promote the game rather than restrict it.
The professional Tournament Directors Association (PTDA) manages the rules and regulations in poker tournaments. Founded in 2001, the organization has more than 2,500 members in more than 63 countries, including managers of large live poker rooms, circuits, and independent tournaments. The organization is chaired by WSOP Tournament Director Jack Effel.
Players are dealt five cards. The first two are hole cards and the third community card is called the “river.” The game continues until a player makes a full house. When a player has a full house, the player with the best hand is declared the winner. The player with the lowest hand is called the “bad beat”.
After a player makes their initial bet, he or she may choose to raise his or her bet. This raise must equal or exceed the previous player’s bet. The amount of the raise depends on the stakes of the game.