Lesson 2

Understanding the Button & Blinds in Poker

Understanding table positions and forced bets.

Poker rotates clockwise. A "Dealer Button" marker shows who acts last (the best spot).

To ensure action, two players must pay forced bets before cards are dealt:

  • Small Blind (SB): The player to the left of the Button. pays 0.5x.
  • Big Blind (BB): The player to the left of the SB. Pays 1.0x (a full bet).

Key Takeaways

  • The Button moves clockwise after every hand.
  • Blinds ensure there are chips to fight for.
  • The Big Blind acts last before the flop.

⚠️ Common Mistakes

  • Playing out of turn.
  • Forgetting to post your blind.
Worked Example
You are the Big Blind. Everyone folds to the Button who raises.
You have already paid 1 bet. You can Call (add more), Raise, or Fold.

Knowledge Check

Test your understanding to complete this lesson.

Question 1 of 5

Who posts the Small Blind?