While some poker players debate the importance of physical “tells,” being able to read them can significantly improve your win rate. Tells are unintentional actions that hint at the strength of an opponent’s hand.
If you watch Poker professionals on Youtube or Sportsnet, there are some incredible players who seem to be able to almost call their opponent’s hands. That is a skill that beginner players won’t understand, but learning the tells can help.
By recognizing these clues, you can adjust your strategy accordingly.
Here are some of the most common “Tells” and what they could mean.
10. Shaky Hands: Nervousness or excitement in big pots can cause shaky hands, especially in inexperienced players. However, it’s important to consider the player’s usual demeanor to interpret this tell correctly.
9. Unusually Small Bets: A small bet on the river often indicates a weak hand. The player is trying to win the pot cheaply without risking a larger bet.
8. Quick Calls: A quick call usually suggests a draw or a medium-strength hand. Strong hands often require more consideration.
7. Quick Bets: Quick bets can be trickier to read. A quick bet often signals strength, but consider the board texture. If the opponent bets quickly on a card that significantly changes the board, they might be bluffing.
6. Excessive Talking: Players who talk excessively after a big bet, especially on the river, often have a strong hand and are trying to convince you to fold.
5. Not Paying Attention: In lower-stakes games, a player who seems uninterested in the hand is often weak. However, be cautious, as this can also be a deceptive tactic with a strong hand.
4. Double-checking Hole Cards: This can indicate a weak or strong hand. Don’t read too much into it unless you know the player’s tendencies.
3. Forceful Handling of Chips: Aggressively throwing chips into the pot is often a sign of a bluff or an attempt to intimidate.
2. A Stern Look: Similar to forceful chip handling, a stern look is often an attempt to intimidate, especially from inexperienced players.
1. Overly Relaxed: While experienced players can bluff while appearing relaxed, an overly relaxed amateur after a big bet often has a strong hand.
By paying close attention to these tells, you can gain valuable insights into your opponents’ hands and make more informed decisions at the poker table.
