Before cards are dealt, two players put in forced bets called the small blind and the big blind. These bets start the pot so there is something to play for.

A white disc called the button shows who is the dealer for the hand. The button moves one seat to the left after every hand, so the blinds and the button travel around the table.

The small blind sits just left of the button. The big blind sits next to that. Because the button keeps moving, everyone pays the blinds in turn.

When you first sit down, you may be asked to post a blind to join the game right away. Or you may be asked to wait until the big blind reaches you. Follow what the dealer directs.

If you are unsure, ask the dealer, 'Do I post or wait?' It is a normal question. The dealer would rather answer it than fix a mistake later.

Some games allow a straddle. A straddle is an extra blind bet, put in before the cards are dealt, that raises the stakes for that hand. The player after the big blind usually posts it.

Straddle rules vary by room and by game. Some tables never allow them, and others allow several kinds. You are never required to straddle, so ask the dealer before you try.