In poker, particularly in games like Texas Hold’em and Omaha, blinds are mandatory bets made by the two players sitting to the left of the dealer button before any cards are dealt. The player immediately to the left of the dealer posts the small blind, while the next player posts the big blind, which is typically double the small blind. These bets ensure that there is always something to play for in each hand and help drive action. After the blinds are posted, the betting continues clockwise around the table, allowing players to call, raise, or fold based on the strength of their hands and the current betting action.
Blinds Example
For example, in a Texas Hold’em game with a $1/$2 blind structure, the player in the small blind position must bet $1, and the player in the big blind position must bet $2 before any cards are dealt. If another player decides to enter the pot, they must at least match the $2 big blind to continue playing.