Beginner Guide – Learn Poker the Simple Way

Before you start

What is poker?

Poker is a card game you play with other people. You try to win the pot (the chips in the middle). You win in two ways: (1) show the best five-card hand at the end, or (2) make others fold before the end. There is luck (which cards you get today) and skill (how you play over many hands).

Why start with Texas Hold’em

Texas Hold’em is the most popular poker game. It is easy to learn, tables are common, and there is lots of learning material. Start with Hold’em, then try other games later (like Omaha or 5-Card Draw). Read the full rules here: Texas Hold’em Rules.

The table & setup

• A normal 52-card deck (no jokers). Usually 2–9 players.
• A small round dealer button shows who is “dealer” (moves left each hand).
• Two forced bets start the action: small blind and big blind.
• In some formats (especially tournaments) there is also an ante (often a Big Blind Ante).

Hand ranks (best → worst)

Learn the order and you will read boards fast. Top is Royal Flush, then Straight Flush, Four of a Kind, Full House, Flush, Straight, Three of a Kind, Two Pair, One Pair, High Card. See pictures and tie-break rules: Poker Hand Ranks.

Your choices each turn

• Check do nothing (only if no bet yet)
• Bet put chips in first
• Call match the current bet
• Raise increase the bet
• Fold give up your hand

Good players do not use every action all the time. They fold often, bet when strong, and raise to apply pressure.

One hand, step by step

1. Blinds/Antes: SB and BB (and sometimes antes) go into the pot.
2. Deal: You get 2 hole cards face down.
3. Preflop: Fold, call, or raise.
4. Flop: 3 shared cards face up → new betting round.
5. Turn: 1 more shared card → bet again.
6. River: Final shared card → last betting round.
7. Showdown: If needed, everyone shows. Best five-card hand wins. Ties split.

Full explanation with examples: Texas Hold’em Rules.

Beginner starting hands (simple list)

Simple rule: play tighter in early seats; play a bit looser in late seats (especially on the button).

Position (act later = power)

“In position” means you act after others. You see what they do first. This gives you more info and better control. The button acts last on most streets and is the best seat.

• Early seats: play fewer hands.
• Late seats / Button: play more hands, steal blinds, value-bet more.

Bet sizing made simple

• Preflop raises: open to about 2.5–3× the big blind (add +1× per limper).
• Postflop bets: use about ½–⅔ pot as a standard size.
• With draws: you can semi-bluff (bet/raise) to add fold equity.

Easy math: outs & odds

Outs are cards that improve your hand. Use the quick shortcut to estimate your chance to hit:

Learn more and see a full table: Odds & Outs.

Practice plan (your first 7 sessions)

1. Session 1: Play very tight. Fold most hands. Watch actions and bet sizes.
2. Session 2: Add strong broadways and medium pairs in late position.
3. Session 3: Practice c-bets (½ pot) when you raise preflop and the flop is good for you.
4. Session 4: Count outs on every draw. Say your % (Rule of 2 & 4) in your head.
5. Session 5: Review 3–5 big hands after playing. What would you change?
6. Session 6: Add a few semi-bluffs with good draws. Keep sizes simple.
7. Session 7: Focus on position. Play more hands on the button; fewer under the gun.

Table etiquette (be a great player to play with)

• Act in turn. Do not slow the game on purpose.
• Keep cards and chips on the table. Protect your hand.
• Do not talk about a live hand you are not in.
• Be polite—win or lose.

Common beginner mistakes

• Playing too many hands; not folding enough preflop.
• Calling too much; not raising for value with strong hands.
• Chasing weak draws without good pot odds.
• Ignoring position.
• Using one big size for every bet (learn ½–⅔ pot).
• Forgetting kickers decide many one-pair pots.

Where to play in Uganda

New? Start low, play short sessions, and learn. See venues and a simple map: Where to Play in Uganda. Remember: casinos and most betting are 25+ in Uganda. Read: Uganda & the Law and Play Safe.

Beginner Guide – FAQ