Top 10 Tells in Poker
In poker, a “tell” is any physical reaction, behavior, habit or clue about your hand given to the other players. It would serve a player good to remember always that there are a lot of exceptions and contradictions to the rule in poker. Furthermore, foolish players will be given false tells by the skilled pros. The tips below are applicable for both novice and advanced players and are supplied by poker experts.
Watch the eyes
Because the eyes hardly ever lie, this is the reason why sunglasses, caps or visors are worn by pros when playing poker.
Facial expression
By wearing a cap when you play on FullTilt.com and looking downward, a lot of pros attempt to conceal their entire face this way. Poker pros are famous for the classic stare down and this is what they are trying to avoid. When your hand is strong, you may show a distinct show of confidence. On the other hand, your face may show obvious discontent when your hand is weak.
Strong is weak, weak is strong.
Players like to be actors basically. This applies to novice players and pros alike. They tend to appear disinterested when they have a monster hand. Otherwise, a player who may be running a bluff tries to look intimidating and raises the level of his voice while raising the pot.
Anxiety
In general, people who are confronted or anticipating confrontation feel anxious. This is referred to as the ‘Fight or Flight’ stimulus response by psychologists. Palpitating heart rate, dry throat, eye pupil dilation, flexing of muscles are just a few of the physical changes which serve as manifestations of anxiety. Some of these characteristics can be exhibited by poker players when they are ready for confrontation.
Hands trembling
In poker, a big hand can be represented by the player’s trembling hands. This is also a side-effect of anxiety. Beware of this player.
Glancing at chips
If players connect with the board after a Flop, it is common for them to glance at their chips swiftly. The player could already be planning his attack when you notice this subconscious reaction.
Peeking hole cards on Flop
When the FullTiltPoker board is showing a potential 3 card flush draw, some players will take one more look at their hole cards. Because a player keeps in mind only that the two cards are different suits, it would be typical for him to look and see if one of his cards is connecting.
Repetitive patterns of betting
Generally, the way a player habitually bets on certain situations is the basis for most revealing poker tells.
Attitude and body posture
Based on their hand strength or attitude, some players may display obvious changes in posture. When a player has strength, the player may be sitting in an erect position and is very attentive. On the contrary, when a player has a weak hand and is not confident, the shoulders may slump or drop.
Stacking chips
If you study how players stack their chips, tight conservative players keep their stacks well organized while loose aggressive players maintain sloppy stacks.