The small blind is typically half the minimum bet required in a poker game. It is one of two forced bets, with the other being the big blind, which helps create a pot and encourage action. The player in the small blind position acts first during the betting rounds that follow, which can be both an advantage and a disadvantage, depending on the strength of their hand and the actions of other players.
Small Blind Example
For example, in a $1/$2 No-Limit Hold’em game, the player in the small blind position would be required to place a $1 bet before the hand begins.