Poker Rules and Etiquette

Poker rules and etiquette helps speed the game along and keep it orderly.

Poker Rule

There are some poker rules that are commonly practised in most poker games, especially in casinos. There are some minor variations from one casino to another, many card casinos are working diligently toward a uniform set of poker rules.  Here is a list of commonly practised poker rules.

• Going all-in - If you don't have enough money to cover the bet,  you are said to be going all-in. 
• The Forbidden String-raise - Calling a bet, then reaching back for more chips and announcing a raise.
• How to raise - If you want to raise, just say "Raise", then count out your stack.
• No Splashing - Don't toss chips in the the center of the table where they mingle with others, stack your chips neatly on the table in front of you away from your main stack.
• Protecting your hands; cards speak - In a casino, you are responsible for your own cards.  Toss your cards in a muck (the pile of discarded cards), and your hand sis fouled and cannot win.
• Table Stakes - Most poker games, including most casino games are table stakes.  You cannot add chips or money to the amount in front of you during the play of the hand.  
• Time Out - Anytime when you are unsure of something, best procedure is to call "TIME".
• Decks and Dealing - Dealers and decks generally rotate every half-hour.  In addition, players unhappy with their runs of cards are prone to holler "Deck Change!"

Poker Etiquette

Here is a list of poker protocol to keep in mind.

• Act in turn
• Keep your cards in plain sight
• Avoid discussing hands in play
• Practice Toking