Do You Have to Match the Big Blind in Poker?

In poker, the blinds are forced bets that are made by two players before any cards are dealt. The player to the left of the dealer is typically required to post the small blind, while the player to their left must post the big blind.

The big blind is usually double the small blind.

After the blinds are posted, each player receives two hole cards face down. The player to the left of the big blind begins the betting round.

PRO TIP:In poker, it is not mandatory to match the big blind. You may fold, call or raise the big blind according to your preferences and objectives. However, if you are just starting out in poker, it is generally advisable to match the big blind as it helps you build a strong foundation for your game.

They can either call (match the big blind), raise (increase the bet), or fold (give up their hand).

If someone raises, then all other players must either call or raise. If someone calls, then the betting round ends and all players remaining in the hand reveal their cards.

The best five-card hand wins the pot.

The small blind is typically half of the big blind and is used to stimulate action in poker. It’s not required that you match the big blind when you’re playing, but if you don’t it means you’re only willing to put half as much money into the pot as everyone else.