While poker is not an official game with a set of universal rules like soccer or tennis, the game does have a global organization managing tournament and game play standards called the Professional Tournament Directors Association (or TDA). The organization works to create consistency in the way games are played around the world. This helps prevent misunderstandings or conflict between players in different regions.

There are a few main rules that all players must follow to keep the game fair for everyone involved. The first is that players must always act within their turn. This means that once you have verbally stated that you will make a bet, raise or call, you are bound to that action and can only do so in accordance with your turn. This rule also extends to the number of bets you can raise in one round and if you knock on the table.

The second important poker rule is that you must pay your blinds in a timely manner. This means that you must pay in a minimum amount to receive your cards before the player to your left is allowed to make a bet. This is often referred to as “blinding off”.

The third important poker rule is that you must not steal chips from other players. This means that you should never exchange or trade chips amongst each other outside of the poker room and must only obtain them from the banker.