Poker has become a global game in the past decade. The professional Tournament Directors Association (TDA) oversees rules for poker tournaments worldwide. The organization’s rules are used for almost all poker tournaments. This ensures that the rules are consistent across the globe. The TDA has more than 2,500 members in 63 countries, including managers of major live poker rooms, circuits, and independent tournaments. Among its members is WSOP Tournament Director Jack Effel.

It is important to follow the rules in order to avoid cheating. For example, it is improper for players to tell a dealer their chip count, or to give advice to their opponents. This can disrupt the game and make other players lose interest in the poker game. Similarly, it is against the rules of poker to laugh about a player’s mistakes.

The rules of poker include etiquette, or the customs of the poker community. These norms govern behavior around the poker table and can prevent a player from committing a major gaffe. There are also unwritten rules about how to behave around poker tables. Incorrect behavior can ruin a poker game and force players to leave.

In live games, players are required to respect their opponents and be polite to them. After all, they will be playing for hours with the same people. Being polite can help you extract monetary value from the game.