Poker is a popular card game played all around the world. It is a game of strategy, skill and luck.
Even if you are new to poker, you must have heard the terms “preflop,” “flop,” “turn” and “river.” These terms refer to the different stages of a poker game.
In this article, we will take a closer look at each of these stages and what they mean.
1. Preflop
The preflop stage is the first stage of a poker game. It starts with the dealer dealing two cards face down to each player.
These two cards are called “hole cards.” After all players have received their hole cards, the first round of betting begins.
During this round, players can choose to either fold, call or raise. Folding means that a player gives up their hand and exits the game.
Calling means that a player matches the current bet made by another player. Raising means that a player increases the current bet made by another player.
Once all players have either folded or matched the highest bet, the next stage begins.
2. Flop
The flop is the second stage of a poker game. It starts with the dealer dealing three community cards face up on the table. These three cards are shared by all players.
After the flop has been dealt, another round of betting begins. This time, however, it starts with the first active player to the left of the dealer.
During this round of betting, players can choose to check (if no bets have been made), bet (if no one has bet yet), call (if someone has already made a bet) or fold (if they do not want to continue playing).
Once all players have either folded or matched the highest bet, we move on to the next stage.
3. Turn
The turn is also known as “fourth street.” It is the third stage of a poker game. It starts with the dealer dealing one community card face up on the table.
After the turn card has been dealt, another round of betting begins. This time, it starts with the first active player to the left of the dealer.
During this round of betting, players can choose to check, bet, call or fold.
Once all players have either folded or matched the highest bet, we move on to the final stage.
4. River
The river is also known as “fifth street.” It is the fourth and final stage of a poker game. It starts with the dealer dealing one final community card face up on the table.
After the river card has been dealt, one final round of betting begins.
During this final round of betting, players can choose to check, bet, call or fold.
Once all players have either folded or matched the highest bet, we move on to the showdown.
5. Showdown
The showdown is when all remaining players reveal their hole cards and community cards to determine who has won the pot. The player with the best five-card hand wins.
In conclusion, these are the different stages of a poker game – preflop, flop, turn and river. Knowing these terms and their meanings is essential if you want to play poker successfully. Remember that each stage presents new opportunities for betting and strategy.
