Learn how to play poker

Poker "Tells"

Poker "Tells" are important if you want to be good at poker. Being observant in this game will help you win the pot. The following are some common poker tells.

Trembling Hands:

This is a byproduct of anxiety. You should be aware of players whose hands are trembling or shaking; this can mean something really big, and nervousness can mean a pretty good hand.

Glancing at Chips:

This can be related to eye movement. This is common for players to make a quick glance at their chips, if they connect this with the board after they flop. This reaction comes from their subconscious; often: the player is planning an attack.

Peeking Hole Cards on Flop:

Players tend to take another look at the hole cards in their hand when the board is displaying a potential of a 3 card flush draw. Normally, the player is peeking to check if one of their cards is simply connecting since, they might only remember if the two cards are different suits.

Repetitive Betting Patterns:

Generally, this is the most revealing tell that a player makes, by habitually betting in a particular way. Take for example, a player that always checks if they have made the nuts, or they may always fold after re-raising.

Body Posture or Attitude:

Obvious players usually change their posture based on their attitude, regarding what is in their hands. Let us say for instance, you see a player that suddenly drop their shoulders if they receive a bad hand; this could mean that they are not confident enough; on the other hand, a player might sit erect if they have a good hand - this will show strength and confidence. You will also see other players who bluff most of the time, and then they lean forward in a confrontational manner, this may signal a strong hand or, as you may remember: "Strong is weak"!

Chip Stacking:

The first time you sit down at the poker table always study the way or manner the other players are stacking their chips. In general, it is a loose-aggressive player's habit that they maintain a sloppy or unorganized stack. Tight-conservative players kept a neat, and well-organized, stack.

With this stacking of chips you can already determine whether the player is loose-aggressive or tight-conservative; whichever the case, you can plan your game tactics based on the types of your opponents.

Planning ahead can give you the edge to win the pot. However, mastering poker "tells" will surely aid you in making beneficial moves in the game. Know your opponent, and know their body gestures. All online poker players can find interesting articles and reviews on online poker sites to get indepth information on all aspects of poker.