There are two ways to split the pot in poker. The best hand wins the pot if it has at least two distinct pairs. In most games, the high card wins the pot, but there are also ties when two players have the same amount of pairs. In these cases, the high card breaks the tie. However, the high card only breaks a tie if it is an even number.
During the first hand, the dealer will indicate the deal. In addition, a dedicated dealer button will move one spot clockwise after each deal. This button will also identify the starting position. Poker action always starts from the left of the dealer button. To be in the game, the player to the left of the dealer must place a bet called the small blind and a larger one known as the big blind. These are the mandatory bets, and give the players something to chase.
When a player wins the pot after a round of betting, he must prove that he was the opener. This may include showing a hand or declaring a foul. The pot can also be won if two or more players called the opening bet.