When it comes to poker, there are many rules you should know. Among the rules are those to follow when talking with opponents, the proper way to handle a pot, and other etiquette. Knowing these can help you win more at the tables. But don’t try to belittle your opponent’s play, or complain about bad beats. These will only ruin the fun and make everyone uncomfortable.

When you start a hand, you will be dealt five cards. If you’re in the position to do so, you should use these cards to form the best possible hand. This can involve trading cards with other players or creating a hand from scratch. However, you should not reveal your hand until it’s time to act. That’s because doing so can lead to misunderstandings and confusion.

Once you’ve determined your hand, you need to decide if you’re going to raise, call or fold. Your decision will depend on several factors, such as how much you are willing to risk and what kind of hand you’re playing. For example, if you’re a tight player, you may be able to maintain a range of 12%, which includes pocket pairs and suited connectors. On the other hand, if you’re a looser player, you’re more likely to take aggressive actions. You’ll also need to make sure that your opponent isn’t trying to bluff you.

When it comes to raising, you should only raise if you think your hand is good enough. Otherwise, you’ll only lose more chips. Do not make a move if you’re thinking your hand isn’t good, because you’ll only be wasting time.

When you’re in the position to do so, it’s acceptable to talk with your opponents. That doesn’t mean you can discuss your range or give advice, however. It can be difficult to make a decision if you’re distracted by chatting with other players.

Before a hand, you will list your open-raising range for each position. For example, if you’re in the middle, you’ll have a range of 13%. This doesn’t include AQ+, QQ+ or AK. Similarly, if you’re in the button position, you’ll have a range of 12%. The percentage form of a range will tell you how many starting hands can be selected.

When you’re in the position of the dealer, you’ll deal your cards face-up on the table. Then, you’ll make a decision about whether to fold, raise, or check. During the final round of betting, you’ll have the option to showdown.

In some games, players can choose to swap their cards with the dealer. That’s called “badugi.” Typically, the badugi dealer will issue four cards instead of five. Each player has the option of trading cards with the dealer up to three times. After each trade, the dealer will shuffle the cards and re-deal them to the next player.

Poker etiquette is about respecting the dealer. If you make a mistake, don’t blame the dealer or complain about the hand. Instead, explain your mistake to the dealer and ask him to fix it. This will not only ensure that your poker game isn’t ruined, but it will also let the other players know that you’re not taking advantage of the situation.