Poker terms and rules explained on PokerStars

What is a side pot in poker?

A side pot is created when one player is all-in and other players continue betting.

Only players who contribute to the side pot can win it.

 

When are side pots created?

Side pots are created when:

• More than two players remain in a hand
• At least one player is all-in
• Other players continue betting

Multiple all-in players can create multiple side pots.

 

What is a kicker in poker?

A kicker is a card that does not form part of the main hand ranking.

It determines the winner when players have the same hand.

Example:
KK85J vs KK85A → the Ace wins

 

What is a split pot?

A split pot occurs when players have identical hands and kickers.

The pot is divided equally.

 

How does pot limit betting work?

In Pot Limit games, the maximum raise equals the total pot size.

The pot includes:

• Previous betting rounds
• Current bets
• The call amount

Example:

• Pot: $10
• Bet: $5
• Call: $5

Maximum raise = $20
Total bet = $25

 

How do blinds work in heads-up play?

• The dealer posts the small blind
• The other player posts the big blind
• The dealer acts first pre-flop and second post-flop

 

Who shows first at showdown?

• If no river bet → first active player left of the button shows
• If there is a bet → the last aggressor shows first

Winning hands are always shown.

 

Can I re-raise a small all-in in No Limit games?

No.

A small all-in does not reopen betting.

It can be called but not raised unless it meets the minimum raise.

 

What is the minimum raise rule in No Limit games?

A raise must be at least equal to the previous bet or raise.

Example:

• Player A bets 100
• Player B raises to 200
• Player C must raise to at least 300