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Poker Articles

That's Why They Call It, Acting!

(Page Two)

What Else To Watch For - At the beginning of a hand, everyone is dealt two cards. My theory is, they aren't going anywhere, so, you don't have to look at them until it is your turn to act, and maybe, not even then. I look for other players looking at their cards, and the initial reaction they have. The eyes truly are the windows to the soul, and in many cases, your hold 'em hand as well. Where do they look after they see their cards? A quick glance at their chip stack may indicate they're about to bet. Most of the time, you'll see players getting ready to toss their cards in the muck, when it is their turn to act. There's that word again. However, most of the rest of the Tells you'll see, will be involuntary.

Flop Sweat - There is a scene in Total Recall where an agent comes in, and attempts to convince our hero, played by Arnold Schwarzenegger, that his current hero fantasy is exactly that, a fantasy. And it would've worked, too, if it hadn't been for the bead of sweat dripping from the temple of the agent, portrayed by Roy Brocksmith. In the reality of the movie, a person in a virtual reality simulation wouldn't sweat, and the agent was lying, as Arnold was indeed attempting to rescue Mars from itself.

But I digress. A demonstration of flop sweat is only slightly related to sweating after the flop. Look for players still in the hand that become suddenly interested in the board, by either leaning in, or glancing at their chips, as if ready to bet as I mentioned above. Conversely, someone may grab their chips before it is their turn to act. This may be an indication of weakness, and an attempt at intimidation. Do they look at their cards again after the flop? This could mean they may have paired, or, if three of the same suit come out, they have a fourth card of that suit. Rest assured, if someone has two of the same suit in their hand, they will indeed remember, and won't have to look at their hand again.

Also check facial reactions. I have a Tell that I have yet to get rid of, wherein I smile when I my hand is made, although, I am working on it. Look for similar facial expressions in your opponents when the flop, turn and river hit the felt. Another subconscious act occurs when a player leans back in their chair after betting, appearing disinterested. This is generally a sign of strength. Proceed with caution. A Player's hands shaking when he grabs his chips is another. A surge of adrenaline could be the cause, which usually comes from being excited from their hole cards. A player's demeanor may shift as they become anxious, ready for a confrontation. This could be an indication of a marginal hand. I usually ask a question of this player, attempting to bring out further Tells. A head tilt to the right, or taking their eyes off of you, will probably mean a bluff. Touching of the face could be another indicator of a lie.

What Does All This Tell You? - Focus. Take in everything that's around you. Watch for patterns, both in body movement as well as betting., The above should be enough to get you started There are several more Tells, however, most of these are individual to a particular player. I could let you know what they are, but of course, that would be Telling.

72 and sunny in Redondo Beach.

Matches Malone