Poker is among other things, a game of strategy and trickery. Making your opponents believe that you have a good hand when in fact you have a flop is the aim of the game.

Ever heard of a Poker Face? That’s someone you couldn’t decipher what he’s thinking or feeling because of an expressionless face. This is pretty much how it goes with poker.

You must watch out for the tell-tale signs of your opponents so you can understand what they are really thinking and feeling about the cards they have in their hands. These are poker tells, so to speak.

On Poker Tells

Mastering the art of reading poker tells gives you the edge over your opponents.

Once you have acquired this skill, match it with your strategies; you could actually have the upper hand in most of your games. However, you have to also be aware of changes in your opponent’s poker tells.

For instance, you know about poker tells and how to read them as accurately as possible; but your opponent knows the exact same things, too. So that could pose a problem in the beginning. But careful observance, matching his actions with his cards – during face-off – could still give you the edge in the long run.

The Strong Hand and Weak Hand Poker Face

If you have a strong hand, you might want to steady those shaking hands before placing your bet. You could also refrain from looking at the pot. These are tell-tale signs that you are holding winning cards and you are excited about it.

Shaking hands show your nervousness and your fear of being read and everyone will fold; they could also show that you are excited to win because you know you have a strong hand.

Looking at the pot could indicate that you’re already counting how much you’re going to win and can’t wait to get your hands on the ante.

On the other hand, a weak hand shows in the way you try to avoid your opponents’ eyes, the way you keep your eyes downward, the way you hesitate when called to make a bet and the way you sit.

Believe it or not, a weak or strong hand shows in your demeanor, as surprising as it may seem.

Also, you might want to get your act together and try hard not to show that you’re acting this one out. Make it as believable as possible. You could be saying one thing and giving off a totally different vibe.

So the key is to be always sure of your moves and to be as natural as possible.