Unwritten Rules of Poker

The game of poker can be a lot of fun. However, it’s important to know some of the rules and etiquette. This can help you avoid gaffes and missteps. You don’t want to make the wrong moves while playing.

Most poker games follow a standard order of play. Players are dealt cards and then called out at the “showdown” to reveal their hands. Once the showdown has begun, players can either pass cards to each other or muck their hands.

There are some unwritten rules of poker that can help you avoid some common mistakes. Keeping these in mind can help you have a good experience and keep you coming back for more.

During the game, it’s important to maintain an orderly chip stack. It’s a lot like keeping a desk tidy. A chip pile that is too messy can slow the game down.

It’s also important to be respectful of the dealer. When you are playing poker, you will be competing against a professional dealer. They are under great stress and need to keep track of your behavior. If you notice a dealer acting erratically, you can talk to the floor manager.

Occasionally, a player may muck their hand in anger. The action is considered an abuse of etiquette. It can delay the game and hurt the dealer.

Likewise, you’re not allowed to peek at the hole cards. Some players use this as a way to confuse the other players.