What is a "poker tell"?

[ProGambler]

A "tell" in poker refers to a player's physical or behavioural indication that can provide information about the strength or weakness of their hand. The opponent may learn something about the player's cards or intentions by a subconscious or involuntary action.

The following are some essential poker tells:

Poker reveals can take many different shapes, including as bodily movements, verbal indications, adjustments in facial expressions and body language, changes in betting patterns, timing of activities, and even unconscious behaviours. Examples of typical signs of anxiety include shaky hands, tense motions, sighs, shifts in breathing patterns, or abrupt changes in posture.

 

[CR7]

Other common poker tells include:

1. Eye Contact: Players who are bluffing may avoid eye contact or make direct eye contact with their opponent in an attempt to fake confidence.

2. Betting Patterns: Players who bet quickly or excessively may be trying to intimidate their opponents. Conversely, players who take their time or make small bets may be indicating a weak hand.

3. Changes in Breathing: Players who hold their breath or breathe rapidly may be signalling a nervous or anxious reaction to their hand.

4. Posture: Players who lean forward or sit up straight may be indicating strength, while players who slump or appear relaxed may be indicating weakness.

5. Verbal Indicators: Players who speak too much or too little may be signalling insecurity or deception. They may also provide verbal clues about the strength of their hand by commenting on the board or their own cards.

6. Timing of Activities: Players who pause before making a decision or act quickly on certain hands may be revealing something about their hand's strength.

However, it is important to note that tells can be misinterpreted or faked, and experienced players will often use them to their advantage by intentionally misleading their opponents. The key to using tells effectively is to observe them in context and to consider other factors, such as the player's history and their overall behaviour at the table.