This is a suggestion on what is deemed to be good practice and a solid starting point for further learning of the art of playing poker. This isn't a definitive guide you'll follow to the letter, as there's no such thing in poker. What follows is a guide on starting poker hands in Texas Hold'em. Every player starts by learning the basic rules of the game and the appropriate starting hand selection, which is what we'll give you here. Texas Hold'em is a game in which it's easy to learn the basics - covered in this starting hands guide - but difficult to master.