The game of poker has a lot of skill and psychology, but it also involves a good amount of luck. This is especially true when betting is involved. This is why it is important to follow the rules of official poker to avoid disputes and upsetting other players.
Unlike most other games and sports, poker has an international organization managing the rules. This group is the professional Tournament Directors Association (also known as the Poker TDA). The TDA is made up of managers from large live and online poker rooms, circuits, and poker leagues around the world who meet every two years at a TDA Summit to discuss changes and put in place reforms for the benefit of all players.
One of the most common poker rules that is broken is called string betting or raising. This is when a player makes a forward motion to call, then backs up and raises without verbalizing their raise. This is a violation of poker rules and could lead the dealer to rule that you only called.
Another problem is ghosting. This is when a player agrees with another player to check their hand out before showing it at showdown, and then lets the third player muck their hand. This is a violation of poker rules, and it is considered bad sportsmanship.
Other violations include arguing at the table, making loud noises or throwing cards. It is also illegal to use a cell phone at the table, even during WFP events. Major infractions can result in a player being ejected from the event, forfeiting their stack, and being banned from future tournaments.