At the start of each game, each player is dealt two cards face down. These are called "pocket cards."

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A round of betting follows. Optional: two players make forced bets called the "big blind" and "small blind." The big blind is usually about double the small blind. Those playing must at least match the big blind to stay in.

The dealer then lays three community cards face up on the table. These three cards are called "the flop."

A round of betting follows.

The dealer then flips a fourth community card face up on the table. This card is called "fourth street" or "the turn."

A round of betting follows.

The dealer then flips a fifth community card face up on the table. This card is called "fifth street" or "the river."

A round of betting follows before players drop out or flip over their cards. The best remaining hand wins the pot. Players can use any combination of best cards.