Action moves around the table to the left. You act only when it is your turn. Acting early can give other players information, and the dealer may not allow it.

When the action reaches you, you can fold, check, call, or raise. Say what you are doing clearly, and try to do it with your chips in the same motion.

In live poker, your spoken words count. A verbal declaration made in turn is binding. If you say 'raise' when it is your turn, you are raising, even if you change your mind a moment later.

Be specific when you raise. Say 'raise to 15' and then put out the chips. Saying the total amount keeps everyone clear on what you mean.

Speak up so the dealer and the players next to you can hear. Mumbling causes confusion and can lead to a ruling you did not expect.

If you are not sure what is going on, ask before you act. A simple 'What's the action?' is fine. The dealer will tell you the bet and what it costs to call.

Take a moment to look at the table before you speak. A short pause to check the bet is normal. Acting fast and being wrong costs more than asking.