Poker Chips keep you playing.

By Mike Banks

Poker Chips are your way of staying in a game; if you manage to have the most at the end of the day, you will walk away with well-earned profit jingling in your pocket. If you do not have the most, then you could lose more than you bargained for. In the fast-paced game of poker, the one with the most Poker Chips rules the table. Here, we have outlined the basics of Poker Chips to help you master the money, so to speak.

Poker Chips--what do they really represent?

Poker Chips equal money; the more you have, the better off you are. Each chip is a different color and is also designated a specific amount of money to equal. These chips are placed in "stacks" at the poker table; a "table stake" is the amount of money you have on the table. This is the maximum amount that you can lose or that anyone can win from you on any one hand. 

Poker Chips--how many to use when beginning a game?

The general rule of thumb is: 

300 chips for 3-4 players

400 chips for 4-5 players

500 chips for 5-6 players

You get the idea; the more player you have, the more chips you need. Of course, this is just a suggestion. There are no exact rules for how many to use during a game. Many players suggest just going with your instincts; do what feels right to you and the other players of the game.

Poker Chips--cash!