Poker is a game of chance, but it also involves strategy and psychology. It’s a card game that can be played in a variety of ways, from high-stakes tournament games to casual kitchen table games. Despite this, there are many rules that must be followed to ensure fair play.
Players should be seated in an appropriate manner so as not to disturb other players or cause delay to the game. Cell phones, music, and any other audio/visual devices should be turned off or set to a level that is inaudible to others at the table. Betting apps and charts may not be used during a hand. Players are responsible for ensuring that they have a clear view of their cards and chips at all times.
When playing a stud hand, players must make sure that all of their cards are exposed and that their cards are not hidden behind any other player’s chips. The TD will determine whether or not the hidden chip(s) are part of the accepted action (Rule 49).
Players must defend their right to act in a hand, unless otherwise announced by the TD. Any player who is skipped OOT must defend their right to act in the next round and/or the TD will rule on how to treat the hand given the circumstances (Rule 36).