What are the small blind and big blind in Texas hold’em?

In Texas hold’em, the small blind and big blind are mandatory bets placed by two players before any cards are dealt. These positions ensure there is money in the pot to initiate the betting process.

• Small Blind: This position is located immediately to the dealer’s left. The player in this seat is required to place a small bet, which is typically one-half of the minimum bet.
• Big Blind: This position is located to the left of the small blind. The player in this seat must place a bet double that of the small blind, which is typically equal to one full minimum bet.

Once these blinds are posted, each player receives two hole cards. The first player to act in the initial betting round is the person sitting to the left of the big blind. If no player raises the big blind, the big blind has the option to check or raise their own bet to continue the action.1